During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree 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 degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering 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. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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