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During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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