In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student 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. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising 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 Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
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