During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research 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 suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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