In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, 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, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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