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In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for 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.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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