During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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