During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed 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 did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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