During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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