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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and told 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 went to the meeting – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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