In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. 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 made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.
