In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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