During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
