During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
