In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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