During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested 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 next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, 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 always appreciative.
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