During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. 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 Ever Done for You?
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