In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
