During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview 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 immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
