In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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