During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin 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 with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. 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. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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