In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes 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 identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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