🔗 Share this article

In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.