In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – 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. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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