During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away 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 said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got 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 identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. 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 Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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