During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi 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. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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