Katrina Padua

Accounting Assistant

“Working here trained me to be more flexible and innovative. Dealing with new matters forces me to stretch myself and be creative in expanding the established methods to suit a particular situation.”

 

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

I arrived in Japan when winter was in full swing. The cold climate was really hard to cope with since I came from the tropics. The language barrier also made it troublesome to accomplish simple chores like buying groceries.

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

I had been dreaming of traveling and living in Japan years ago so it was almost exactly as I pictured with the exception of how Japanese people treat their jobs. To them, work is their life.

What were your fondest experiences in Japan thus far?

I truly treasure the memories during my trip to Wakayama. I enjoyed being away from the city and indulged myself with the white sand beach of Shirahama, the world heritage pilgrimage routes of Kumano Kodo, the Three-story pagoda of Seiganto-ji temple and Nachi Falls, the sumptuous fresh bounty from the sea at Toretore Market and the Saki-no-yu seaside open air hot spring. It was a wonderful opportunity to observe how Japanese people respect nature.

I am looking forward

to travel more within and outside Japan. I want to explore nature, taste different culinary wonders and experience rich cultures.

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

Working here trained me to be more flexible and innovative. Dealing with new matters forces me to stretch myself and be creative in expanding the established methods to suit a particular situation.

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

They are hard-working and focused. My team leaders were patient and supportive in guiding me through the basics which I am grateful for.

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

I have learned how to prioritize and organize tasks well. Like everything else in Japanese life, nothing is considered as insignificant here - thus, my attention to details has improved dramatically.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The responsibilities do not require complicated skills but the sheer volume and variety of the workload are the challenges that I have to attend daily. In addition, completing duties rapidly is a challenge because issues must be communicated to other teams before being addressed.

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

A functioning and effective Accounts team is already a feat I am proud of since we are currently recruiting more people. My team-mate and I had to devise ways to address the tasks and new issues efficiently without compromising quality. It is highly satisfying to work in such a collaborative environment with extremely talented and focused people who always give their best for the success of the firm and its clients.

What three words describe the Firm best? First in English, then in your mother tongue

Systematic - Maparaan, Swift - Matulin, Strict - Mabagsik.