In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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