During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know 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 pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
