During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 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 started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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