In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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