In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, 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, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to 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 declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
