Quima Renegado

Assistant

“I learned to be more meticulous and attentive to details. It made me realize that I'm quite adaptable to new things, not just in work but life in general. I always thought that I could work well under pressure and working here has allowed me to prove to myself just that.”

 

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

The language barrier was the main challenge for me. During my first grocery shopping visit, instead of buying cooking oil I ended up buying mirin. Navigating can be tricky at first. However, Japanese people are very accommodating. They will go out of their way to accompany you to the nearest station or to your destination (if near enough).

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

A mixture of personalities that are very hard working and very determined. They make it a point to get the job done on time.

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

Absolutely. It makes me happy when I receive letters of gratitude or appreciation from clients for jobs well done.

How did you manage to learn a lot about your work within a short period?

Relating to myself, my willingness to learn and to put in extra effort has made the learning process much faster. Of course, I couldn't discount the help that I got from my colleagues. They are always willing to help and share their knowledge.

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

discovering new places, food and hanging out with friends.

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

Working at the firm taught me that I'm capable of pushing myself more to be better than I thought I could be. I learned to be more meticulous and attentive to details. It made me realize that I'm quite adaptable to new things, not just in work but life in general. I always thought that I could work well under pressure and working here has allowed me to prove to myself just that.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

Skiing in Shiga, playing in the snow and cherry blossom viewing with newfound friends.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The challenge for me was all about attaining and maintaining competence. In my department, competence means completing tasks within schedule while maintaining quality of work.

What is your most treasured possession that you've obtained during your stay in Japan thus far and why?

My camera. So far, my stay here in Japan has been special. There are so many things to see and experience. I am hoping to use my camera to immortalize my experience.

I am looking forward to experience ...

Hokkaido and Mt. Fuji.

What advice would you give to a potential new colleague?

Nothing is ever easy. You get what you work for. Just keep on pushing and never give up. Always aim to be better than your yesterday's self. You're going to make mistakes but what is important is that you learn from them.

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.

Diverse. Earnest. Prompt. Lahi-lahi. Matubayon. Alisto.