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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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