In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him 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 Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached 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 taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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