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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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