During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight 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 master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
