During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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