During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student came up 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 made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
