In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in 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 benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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