During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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