During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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