In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
