During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told 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 prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
