In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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