During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me 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 attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of 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.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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