During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off 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 said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of 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 can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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