In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
