In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi 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 gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
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