During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. What you share are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
