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In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. 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. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – 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 no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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