During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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