In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies 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 consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight 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 finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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