During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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