During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. 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. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
