In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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