During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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