In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
