Nikhil Karande

Senior Patent Analyst

“I've become more disciplined and organized both professionally and personally. Specifically, it has taught me that if you are ready to push your limits, you can surely achieve your goals.”

 

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

Although I had a fair idea about the language barrier and the raw food in Japan, not knowing how to use chopsticks makes you feel like an illiterate in this part of the world. Luckily, I learnt how to ask for a fork in Japanese which kind of made my life easier.

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

It was more or less the way I expected - highly polite culture, abundance of scenic beauty, extremely workaholic people and technologically advanced country. But, the use of technology is not for pomp and show. Instead, it’s for making things simpler and easier to use / understand.

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

When I first started working at SY, all my co-workers were extremely helpful and supportive. They would answer all my questions and clear my doubts, no matter how stupid my questions were or how busy they were.

What one thing has surprised you the most about working at SY?

The amount of work we deal with every single day and the long office hours is something I never thought I would be able to handle before joining the firm. It certainly is challenging to produce quality work for more than 12 hours daily! On a lighter note, the diversity of background and personalities at the firm is the other thing which surprised me. There are people from all around the globe. Literally!

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The work quality that is expected of you is close to perfect. Being a patent law firm, no mistakes are entertained whatsoever, and none are taken lightly. But if we look at it with the right attitude, it is an opportunity to train yourself to be a better professional.

How have you developed as a person since working and living in Japan?

I’ve become more disciplined and organized both professionally and personally. Specifically, it has taught me that if you are ready to push your limits, you can surely achieve your goals.

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

Traveling and exploring. Japan is a beautiful country and there are lots of places to visit.

I’m looking forward to ...

Climbing Mount Fuji. Even the locals describe it as a "crazy" task but, I would like to try it before leaving Japan.

What are the top three tips would you give to anyone thinking of applying to join SY?

Be ready to step out of your comfort zone, have a positive attitude and learn some Japanese before coming.

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

Working at SY has taught me how to be productive and efficient at the same time, and how to be a good team player. Most importantly it has taught me how to push my limits, achieve new goals and has helped me develop a positive professional mindset.