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In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

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

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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