In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was exploring 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 Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility 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 chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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