During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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 are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
