In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
