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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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