In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting 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 explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
