During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply 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.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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