In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
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