In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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