In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to 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 anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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