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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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