In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” 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 got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.
