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During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told 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 went to the meeting – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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