During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
