In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. 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 Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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