In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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