In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over 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 showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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