In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called 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 enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, 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 let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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