During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there 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 graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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