In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – 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 responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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