In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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