In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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