During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
