In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know 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 right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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