Allen Chan

Biotechnology Specialist

“Working here is undoubtedly hard, but the work is very satisfying – at so many levels. You need a good amount of doggedness and willpower. If you are looking for challenges, the Firm has plenty of them.”

 

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

Similar to moving to any other new places, the language barrier was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to life in Japan, however, my co-workers were generous with their experiences and knowledge, and my transition to life in Japan, while not perfect, was smoother than what I expected.

What were your fondest leisure experiences while you were working in Japan?

Being at the Sapporo Snow Festival is definitely my fondest experience in Japan, with all the gigantic snow sculptures. It was amazing.

When I'm not at work, I'm

relaxing and traveling with my friends.

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

Knowing that one's potential is infinite. Sometimes even though when I have to work on a file or technology that I have little or no prior knowledge about and may be somewhat wary of it, working at the Firm has given me the tools to scale up the learning curve quickly and do the work and deliver a work product that the client expects.

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

They were very helpful and ready to instruct. If I had a question or challenge there is always a kind team member who has experienced something similar or has knowledge to share, and the team has an overall very supportive atmosphere; if you want to learn and improve.

What work skills and habits have you learned or improved?

To quickly and thoroughly understand what the clients want. Being here has buttressed my confidence and I am pleased to discover that I can excel under work pressures and learn how to cope with difficult and different situations – these are the kinds of experiences you can't get from working at a lab.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Trying to explain things in simple and clear manner. The simple things are always the hardest. Occasionally you do make mistakes but the recovery is just as important.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

Working here is undoubtedly hard, but the work is very satisfying – at so many levels. You need a good amount of doggedness and willpower. If you are looking for challenges, the Firm has plenty of them.