In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to 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 kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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