During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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