In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. 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 noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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