Name: Peter Gruss
Title: President & CEO, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology
URL: www.oist.jp
Hometown: Hessen, Germany
Years in Japan: 5
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in the heart of Germany, in Hessen. In a beautiful medieval city. I was actually born in a house built in 1650, a half-timbered house. It all very much influenced me. I’m still in favor of small places.
What do you do for fun in Okinawa?
I’m a swimmer, diver and snorkeler. One of the best snorkel places is only five minutes away from OIST. From the beginning of the year until the end of March, there are turtles and whales — it’s amazing. I also travel to all the islands. At Yonaguni, you can dive with hammerhead sharks. At Ishigaki, you can see the stingrays. They are huge!
What is your favorite food in Japan?
Good sashimi. When I go to Europe, I refuse to eat any of it. Also, umi budo, which is famous seaweed in Okinawa. They look like miniature grapes — they give you a little tickle. You can buy them every day at the market, and also such fresh fish. Healthy food is one of the joys of living in Okinawa. It is a “blue zone,” one of only five in the world.
What is your favorite quote or motto?
“Be curious.” This is what I always tell the students, during my annual conferences. It is not really a quote, just an approach for life.
What is your biggest achievement?
A single choice is not possible. But one thing that comes to my mind: I’m proud that I simply had a compass, at various junctures, to make the right decision. Perhaps it was luck. But looking back, I am glad I had this instinct. Now I sometimes say that it was my gut … and the more I age, the more it grows!
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