Li Yanjing

Biotech/Chemistry Specialist

“My team-leaders set me a very good example with high level which I am still trying to achieve. They and other senior staff are competent individually and run this team as a whole efficiently by offering their help and intelligence willingly.”

 

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

The Japanese language. Although I am luckier than some other foreign staff since I can recognize some kanji in Japanese and could make a wild guess the meaning of a notification or sign written in Japanese, it turned out to be quite difficult for communication.

Other than language, the apartment arrangement, internet access and transition package arranged by the Firm was very efficient and effective. It helped a great deal as I did not have to worry at all about such things when I moved to Osaka.

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

Before I came here, I thought Japan is quite small. After I arrived, I found that Japan is even smaller than I had imagined, like the room, the street, the shops, almost everything here, but they are very cute, tiny and compact. Then after a while, I would say Japan is also big, because there are so many interesting places that attract me.

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

Live concerts. I have been to two live concerts of my favorite band Linkin Park in September of 2011 in Chiba. I have also seen All Time Low, Blessthefall, the Used, Silverstein and a Japanese local band called coldrain. Summer Sonic festival was really fantastic too!

I am looking forward

to a road trip to travel around Japan.

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

Confidence. I should not question my judgment or analysis too much sometimes.

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

My team-leaders set me a very good example with high level which I am still trying to achieve. They and other senior staff are competent individually and run this team as a whole efficiently by offering their help and intelligence willingly.

What work skills and habits have you learned or improved?

Efficiency. For this job, we are facing various “due dates" very day. My problem is overthinking. As a perfectionist and a very careful person, I always want to triple-check- or more - my work even though a double-check is enough.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The workload. Some cases might be time-consuming, thus when we have a large amount of work with urgent deadlines, it would be quite challenging. You must become efficient and resourceful.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

When you are stuck, do not be shy to ask. You are allowed to make mistakes at the beginning, but be careful not to make the same mistake twice or more.