During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me 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 attended the interview – but right away informed my interviewer 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: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that 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 nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
