In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering 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. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn 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 multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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