In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, 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 leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
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 now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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