In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed 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 showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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