In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
