During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” 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 complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
