In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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