In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. 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 don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.
