During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.
