During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for 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 helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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