When Norman Garrick left Jamaica to pursue graduate research in the USA, he by no means imagined Switzerland would sooner or later turn out to be residence. On this episode of Jamaicans to the World, hosted by Xavier Murphy, Norman shares how a spontaneous journey in 1985 led to a life-changing reference to Zurich.
Born in Kingston and raised between Rockfort and Spanish City, Norman studied engineering at UWI earlier than finishing his MS and PhD at Purdue College. He later turned a professor of civil engineering and concrete planning on the University of Connecticut, a job that took him throughout the globe—from the U.S. and Jamaica to Sierra Leone and Asia.
Norman’s first go to to Switzerland got here via a dare from a Swiss buddy. He saved up for the journey and spent a memorable Christmas discovering Zurich. It wasn’t love at first sight, however one thing caught. Years later, after numerous work journeys and world experiences, he returned—and stayed.
Now retired, Norman enjoys a quiet life in Zurich. He praises town’s effectivity, cultural richness, and quick access to nature. He doesn’t personal a automobile, lives close to each the forest and metropolis centre, and spends his days mountain climbing, exploring bookstores, and attending concert events and the opera.
Whereas he appreciates the calm, Norman is trustworthy in regards to the challenges—particularly the lengthy, gray weeks of fog in November. His recommendation? “Take a practice to the highest of a mountain and look down on the fog. It adjustments your perspective.”
One in all his most hanging reflections is on how Jamaicans are perceived overseas. “Jamaica is a model that carries weight,” he says, recalling moments when Swiss locals recognised his accent and lit up with admiration. Watch the total episode now on YouTube.
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Cowl Picture – Norman Garrick with husband and Pals (contributed)
