In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told 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 right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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