In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned 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 job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me 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 was without a work permit, 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. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
