During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed 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 responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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