During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
