In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted 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 job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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