Kate Matriano

Legal Assistant

“Someone who has emerged triumphant over what can be a rocky beginning in the legal world is who I would classify as successful in the Firm. I can classify myself as one because I was able to admit when I don't know something while at the same time, imitating a sponge in the way of absorbing necessary information.”

 

How was Japan in reality to what you had imagined before you arrived?

Japan is everything I imagined it to be and more — a place where ancient traditions, unconventional fashion, futuristic toilets, playful characters that take one back to the good old days, discipline, and dedication to one's work peacefully coexist with one another to create a country like no other.

How would you describe your co-workers?

Hard-working and talented.

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

Yes. As a paralegal/legal assistant, my main duty is to convey the message I should send to the client succinctly and in a timely manner. Being able to do both directly helps the clients to be aware of the steps they have to take as well as the information they have to know during the prosecution of a case.

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

The most important thing I learned about myself while working at the Firm is that I invariably find ways to be successful when I set my mind on something.

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

I have to admit I was able to adjust quite easily to living in Japan. While there is the occasional hiccup in the form of the (surprise, surprise) language barrier, I do believe as long as I keep an open mind (and the Google Translate app on my phone), I will be able to make anywhere in the world my home.

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

The opportunity to be exposed to people of varied backgrounds.

When I am not at work, I am

most often than not trying out food somewhere.

What was the most pleasant surprise you experienced at work?

I was rendered speechless when my former teammates surprised me with a cake on my birthday (considering I have only been with the firm for less than three months then).

What are the challenging aspects of your work?

The most challenging aspect for me is the amount of information I initially have to remember. As a client-oriented law firm, we do our best to accommodate and meet our clients' needs and expectations to the best of our ability, which more often than not means we have different guidelines and instructions to follow per client.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

While eating is usually not considered a leisure activity, my idea of a perfect way to spend my free time involves top quality food. My fondest gastronomic experiences are made up of eating fresh, exceptional sea urchins and premium matcha ice cream both in Kyoto, and spending what some would consider ridiculous amount of money in melt in the mouth Kobe beef.

I am looking forward to

experience winter in Hokkaido.

What would you say makes someone successful at the Firm; and more specifically, what factors made you successful at the Firm?

Someone who has emerged triumphant over what can be a rocky beginning in the legal world is who I would classify as successful in the Firm. I can classify myself as one because I was able to admit when I don't know something while at the same time, imitating a sponge in the way of absorbing necessary information.

What three words describe the Firm best? First in English, then in your mother tongue

- Quality. De kalidad.
- Competent. May kakayahan.
- Reliable. Maaasahan.