The Kindness of Unknown Individuals: How a Person I Only Just Encountered Assisted Me Land the Role That Changed My Life

During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – 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 place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.