In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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