In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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