During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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