In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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