In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up 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 taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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