In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.