During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share 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 Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
