🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.