During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
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 recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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