🔗 Share this article

In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research 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 how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?

From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.