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During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him 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 Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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