During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure 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, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
