Irene Nguyen

Accounting/eBilling Assistant

“Working at SY has taught me that there's nothing we couldn't do if we really want to. There are times we have difficulties and pressures, but we then together work it out and overcome it and eventually break our limits.”

 

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

Since I had been living in Japan before I joined the firm, I'm already acquainted with the culture and the people here. However, never have I imagined myself would settle down here in Osaka in the near future. Osaka in my mind was a must-visit destination when traveling. As a tourist, I love the vibe and the energy of this no-sleep city (before the pandemic). I love how it could be traditional and modern at the same time. But that was just it. Not until I started my new chapter of life here could I discover more about this city. Despite being one of the biggest economic cities in Japan, Osaka is not so crowded as Tokyo. Living here is not so costly as my imagination as well. Osaka people work hard, and play hard. They are very hard working during weekdays, but can also enjoy their best time with family and friends in the weekend. They are also very interesting and fashionable, totally different from a "boring" image I used to put on them. So far I'm really enjoying my new life here.

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

In my case, I would say it is the Japanese language. Even though I learned a bit of Japanese at school, I was not used to the Osaka dialect, which had brought me some difficulties in my daily life. I even had self-doubt with my language ability at that time (laugh) but gradually I'm getting more familiar with it.

How would you describe your co-workers?

They are hardworking, responsible, and very friendly. Because we all have different backgrounds and cultures, I have been able to observe a matter from different viewpoints and learn a lot from them. They are always willing to assist and support and patiently explain when there's a matter I don't understand, which I'm very grateful for. They are cooperative as well, a lot of problems can be solved faster when we work together. Moreover, we're not only co-workers at work but also friends out of work, I love how we spend time together discovering Japan in our free time and holidays.

When I am not at work, I ...

wandering around the city and area. I like discovering new spots with friends or even alone by myself.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

- Shopping and food tripping with friends and co-workers
- Wearing Kimono and taking nice photos with Sakura
- Counting down to New Year at Fushimi Inari Shrine

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

Working at SY has taught me that there's nothing we couldn't do if we really want to. There are times we have difficulties and pressures, but we then together work it out and overcome it and eventually break our limits.

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

Definitely. As an accounts assistant, our works not only impact on our firm but also help our clients to manage their accounts more efficiently. We always do our best to answer to their requests in a timely and professional manner, which I believe would add value to the services that are being rendered and maintain the good relationship between our firm and our clients.

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

I am able to learn how to think and act globally. Working in an international environment, I can view a matter from different aspects, broaden my perspective and mindset.

What are the challenging aspects of your work?

Because of the professional characteristics of the work, the requirements and expectation are relevantly high. Considering our everyday workload, it is important to be able to solve efficiently and accurately in the shortest amount of time to meet clients' satisfaction.

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

"For success, attitude is equally as important as ability." - Walter Scott. I believe every work has its own challenge and nothing is easily achievable. Therefore, setting up a good attitude for yourself could help you to conquer all the challenges.

What advice would you give a potential new colleague?

Believe in yourself, you can always do better than you expect. There is no such thing as personal limitation. Do not be afraid of challenges, because they always come with opportunities.

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.

Professional - Chuyên nghiệp
Challenging - Thách thức
Limitless - Không giới hạn

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

This is not what I am materially possessing but it is my most treasured possession mentally. It's a branded bag I bought for my Mom as a birthday gift using my own salary! I will never forget her happy tears when she received it!