During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
