In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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