In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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