🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.