During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
