During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
