During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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