In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, 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, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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