During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained 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 – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. 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 attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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