Rachelle Mayuga

Attorney

“Working here at the Firm brought me out of my comfort zone. I've always prided myself on being diligent at work and having a high sense of accountability. But I realized these traits are standard, and it is in having a positive attitude that truly makes all the difference. This applies to work, and life in general.”

 

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

I arrived here late January which was during the middle of winter, so I had adjust to the sudden change in climate. While Osaka is not really known for going below 0 degrees C even at the height of winter, I am used to tropical weather year-round. However, with the right clothing gear and decent heating system indoors, the cold was manageable.

Everything was new and felt like a life reset -- dealing with the currency, observing proper etiquette and acceptable social norms, etc. It was challenging but really exciting. Almost everything's an internet search away so settling in also became easier.

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

I have always heard good things about Japan -- such as how polite the people are, how its streets are always safe at any time of the day.

Before going here though, I resolved not to have unreasonable expectations so that I can take in the culture for what it is. However, I soon found out that the Japanese are extremely polite and helpful, even going out of their way to assist strangers like me despite the communication difficulties.

What have been your fondest experiences in Japan?

Reaching the summit of Mount Fuji, and cycling along the Shimanami Kaido route (Hiroshima Prefecture) with office friends.

It was in these physically challenging moments when I felt that I understood the meaning of E. Hemingway's line: "It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end." Sounds cheesy, but I can say the same thing about everyday living in Japan.

I am looking forward to experience ...

all the thrilling rides at the Fuji-Q Highland before summer officially ends. The roller coasters of Fuji-Q broke world records for being the fastest/tallest when they opened, and the fact that it's set against Mount Fuji makes it a dream theme park for me.

One of my photography projects is to recreate scenic postcards of Japan through photos I've personally taken. I hope to complete all the locations on my list.

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

They patiently explained about how things were done, the systems that were in place at the office, but at the same time I saw that they were careful not to "spoon-feed" the trainees in order for the learning process to be more effective.

They constantly tested us to see how quickly we can learn new work tasks, so it was the good kind of pressure to accelerate the learning curve.

What work skills and habits have you learned or improved from your time here thus far?

Attention to detail is a must in our field of work.
Effective and clear communication is important in all teams.
Focus amidst the chaos.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Perfect output is expected at all times. That is why task and time management is important to produce quality work consistently -- it's a learned skill knowing which tasks to prioritize, especially since all projects are considered urgent. After some time in this Firm, you will get a sense of how to balance all new and existing projects you are a part of.

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

Working here at the Firm brought me out of my comfort zone. I've always prided myself on being diligent at work and having a high sense of accountability. But I realized these traits are standard, and it is in having a positive attitude that truly makes all the difference. This applies to work, and life in general.

Can you describe a successful work assignment that was your proudest professional moment thus far ?

I define successful work by how satisfied the clients are with our quality of output. One of the projects I was involved in was a huge restructuring matter, and the team had to complete the recordal project in an intense time-pressure situation. Knowing that the clients appreciate the service we provide them is very rewarding.

What three words describe the Firm best?

Meticulous (mabusisi). Specialized (dalubhasa). Family (pamilya/mag-anak).

What three verbs best define your experience in Japan thus far?

Go, glow, grow. (Just like the three essential food groups for a balanced life.)