In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
