In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin 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 degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
