In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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