During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
