In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place 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 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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