During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me 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 went to the meeting – but straight off told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
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