In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, 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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