In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, 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 forever grateful.
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