In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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