In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS 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 people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to 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 forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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