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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me 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 attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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