In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to 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 taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
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 didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
