Wu Zhouxing

Computer/EE Technology Specialist

“The work we do is real. There is no busywork, or trivial tasks, even in the first month. The analysis we perform is sent to some of the biggest names in the world. This level of responsibility is overwhelming for some and, in my opinion, is unfortunately not suitable for everyone. Personally, however, I take great pride in knowing that my time is spent on meaningful assignments.”

 

What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to life in Japan?

Figuring out the buttons on those electronic toilets! But seriously, like many others I was initially overwhelmed by the language gap. Spending some personal time studying the Japanese language has alleviated this issue though (and also helps with deciphering those electronic toilet buttons).

How were your first few weeks in Japan?

Extremely eventful. For one, the magnitude 9.0 Tohoku Earthquake struck during my first week of work. However, far from the chaos you normally expect as a result of such a disaster, the people of Japan carried on in calm solidarity. Needless to say, I was incredibly impressed.

How did you cope with the stresses of working and living in Japan?

Honestly speaking I have never felt all that stressed during my stay in Japan. The support from my friends/colleagues is amazing and really minimizes any stress from relocation and working in a fast-paced law firm. I'm very grateful to them for everything from showing me how to hunt for my own apartment to making sure I get home safely after a long night out.

What were your fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

Wake up Saturday morning. After a four hour road trip to a remote beach, set up our tents and BBQ for an afternoon feast. Stargazing and eating some more at night (along with plenty of drinks!). Snorkeling and spearfishing in the crystal-clear sea the next day, followed by a relaxing stay at a nearby hot spring before finally heading home. And that's just a standard summer weekend.

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

...stuffing myself at all-you-can-eat steak, chilling out at one of the many nearby arcades, or having a relaxing stroll through the famous shopping districts of Osaka. Really, the whole city is a playground, and is where I spend most of my off days.

What sort of work did you get and was it challenging?

In terms of client work, I have dealt mostly with patent prosecution (obtaining new patents) and invalidation (attacking/defending existing patents). This work is extremely challenging as everything must be done quickly and without mistakes. At times the technical background needed to analyze a particular case also presents a challenge - in these cases a strong affinity for online research and quickly absorbing information is necessary.

Of course, often overlooked is the non-client work that every senior team member is tasked with. Training new team members is not a trivial task and presents an entirely new set of challenges to work with.

What did you like most about your work?

The work we do is real. There is no busywork, or trivial tasks, even in the first month. The analysis we perform is sent to some of the biggest names in the world. This level of responsibility is overwhelming for some and, in my opinion, is unfortunately not suitable for everyone. Personally, however, I take great pride in knowing that my time is spent on meaningful assignments.

How has your work and experience at SY helped in your current position?

My SY work and experience from my tenure was essential to my job hunting efforts in securing my current in-house patent position. Therefore, I am very grateful to the Firm and its management for the valuable guidance that I received over the years. The SY work contract experience is extremely valuable in one's career progression.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

Don't be intimidated! Basically, I would emphasize to any entry level recruits that while the work is tough, the tools to help you succeed are in place and you just need to take advantage of them.