During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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