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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me 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 immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

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 bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

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