During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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