In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
