During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
