In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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