In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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