🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know 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 attended the interview – but straight off told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.