During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know 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 using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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