In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
