🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.