In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “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. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
