During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
