During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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