In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
