During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away 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 said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
