In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – 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. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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