During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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