During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
