During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. 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 got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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