In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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