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In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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