During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know 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 straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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