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During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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