During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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