Michelle Item

Assistant

“Working at the Firm has taught me that I am able to work under pressure, and that I am capable of so much more than what I thought I could do.”

 

What were the initial difficulties of adjusting to life in Japan?

Figuring out the social norms was something that I had a hard time with initially. People have a different way of doing things here, and it's the kind of thing that you just learn through experience.

How would you describe your co-workers during your initial time at work?

My co-workers are people who make my work life fun, while at the same time help me to grow and improve myself.

Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?

Yes. I'm happy when I feel like I'm able to positively contribute towards our client's goals.

When I am not at work, I am ...

relaxing at home, or hanging out with my friends.

What is the most important thing that working at the firm has taught you about yourself?

Working at the Firm has taught me that I am able to work under pressure, and that I am capable of so much more than what I thought I could do.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

1. Hanging out with my friends from work on the weekends.
2. Sight-seeing around the Kansai area.
3. Showing my family around Osaka.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The long work day routine. Time is very important, especially for our clients. Thus, it is inevitable to have long work days to be able to meet the needs and demands of our clients. Despite the long work day routine, it is worth it knowing we are able to help our clients in many ways.

What is the best thing about being a part of a global team?

I have met so many new people and made so many new friends here at the Firm from all around the globe. Everyone always has such interesting stories and experiences from where they're from.

I am looking forward to experience ...

more of what SY and Japan has to offer.

What advice would you give to newbies?

Everyone has to start somewhere. Nobody expects you to know everything right off the bat. The most important thing is to learn from your mistakes, and ask questions if there's anything you don't understand.

Of all the adjectives floating in your brain, give us three that best describe your life in Japan. First in English, then in your mother tongue.

Challenging but fun; new. Mahirap pero masaya; bago.