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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, 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 amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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