🔗 Share this article

During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering 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. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. What you share are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.