During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over 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 made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” 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 no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
