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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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