During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named 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 other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to 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 taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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