In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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