In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received 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 can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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