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During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared 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 Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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