In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person 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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