In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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