During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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