In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – 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 chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to 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 went to the meeting – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. What you share are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
