In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
