In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, 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 Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
