In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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