In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
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