During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
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 a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, 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 encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
