In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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