In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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