In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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