🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.