In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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