During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering 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. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown 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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