In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering 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 science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
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 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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