In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of 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, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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