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During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering 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. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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