During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, 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, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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