During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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