During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, 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 paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
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