During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
