In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. What you share are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
