In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq 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 showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
