In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed 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 did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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