An Compassion of Unknown Individuals: The Way a Person I Only Just Encountered Assisted Me Land the Job That Altered My Path

In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education 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 identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.