During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
