During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, 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 microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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