During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over 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 taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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