During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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