In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
