During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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