In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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