In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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