In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed 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 went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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