In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply 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.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know 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 attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
