In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
