In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS 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 other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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