During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to 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 went to the meeting – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done 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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