In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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