During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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