During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution 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.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
