🔗 Share this article

During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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

Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.