In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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