In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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