In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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