🔗 Share this article

During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin 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 newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research 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 proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting 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 immediately told 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. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have 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.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.