In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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