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During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out 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 suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting 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 immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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