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 considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition 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 identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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