In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
