🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Tell us about the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about 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. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.