During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition 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 selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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