During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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