In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, 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 electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane 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 master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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