During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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