During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – 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 metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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