Tria Ambrocio

International Paralegal

“We are already blessed with the opportunity to work for our clients and help them develop products and services that will change the word. You will realize at the end of the day that despite the difficult work that we have, working here will help you achieve your professional goals.”

 

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

Japan was exactly how I imagined it to be. Life here is as convenient and safe as I expected it to be. I love how there are vending machines in every corner of any street and how 100yen shops can be a one-stop-shop for someone who has just moved in Japan.

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

The language-barrier was quite challenging. I did not know how to speak Japanese when I first came here. Eventually, I have found out that the Japanese are remarkably helpful- they truly would go out of their way to assist foreigners despite the communication difficulties.

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

Everyone at the firm is dedicated at their respective jobs. It is thrilling because you get to witness professionalism among your colleagues and you are also challenged (and expected!) to do the same. In fact, their attitude towards work has always inspired me to become better at what I do.

Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?

Of course. I deal with client correspondence every day and I make sure that each correspondence is taken care of appropriately. I keep in mind that as an associate, our clients rely to our analysis and knowledge in terms of Japanese law and practice. When I respond to their inquiries and requests, it is like helping them attain their goal one step at a time.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

The work product must meet clients’ expectations at all times. In order to obtain such work output, consultation with different people, such as leaders and attorneys, is inevitable. However, each of us has our own deadlines to meet and one should be aware of this in order to fit into a colleague’s schedules. A letter is not simply sent out to the client- at least two or more person will have to study the case first. Despite this challenging procedure, I believe that it has helped the firm to continue producing excellent outputs throughout the years.

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

I have always been a leader during my life as a student. Being the ambitious and determined person that I am, I expected my performance to be outstanding even on my first week at work (note that I started work at the firm straight from the university). However, I soon learned that our work is totally new to me and given the bright co-workers from the firm, I never thought that I will be able to lead again (at least at this firm due to the high risk and importance of our work). I was wrong- I worked hard to understand our firm’s practice and I soon became independent. Being independent in this firm means being able to take over responsibility and teaching and guiding new recruits. Regardless of the tough work that we have, I find it rewarding because it sharpened my skills, especially time-management, communication, and leadership skills.

What was the most pleasant surprise you experienced at work?

My closest friends from work threw a surprise birthday party for me. I honestly did not expect anything on that day because it was a workday and I have only been with the firm for 5 months at that time. Even so, my sweet and thoughtful co-workers exerted time and effort to manage the surprise. I would always remember and cherish that day.

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

Exploring. I love food and travelling and I am blessed that I can combine these two even on a single day of sightseeing in Japan. In this country, there is always good food anywhere you go!

What is the best thing about being part of a global team?

Our firm builds a team that offer the best functional expertise from around the world. As a part of a global team, I am lucky enough to be able to interact with people from different cultures that share a common goal. Also, as I am exposed to different cultures, I get to absorb behaviors of my co-workers that help me improve as a person.

I would tell someone just starting their career here at SY that...

continue aiming for the best. If you have this quality in you, I am pretty sure you will do well at this firm. We are already blessed with the opportunity to work for our clients and help them develop products and services that will change the word. You will realize at the end of the day that despite the difficult work that we have, working here will help you achieve your professional goals. So continue aiming for the best and always look forward to the future.