In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. What you share are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
