Louisa Ng

Foreign Attorney

“I have learned that with perseverance and a positive outlook, I can do anything I want to, once I have set my mind to it. The rewards of working here far outweigh any complaints that come to mind.”

 

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

For me, it was the process of settling into a routine throughout the week. For example, since I prefer to cook my meals and eat them at the office, I had to figure out a time to do all that during the weekend, because I did not want to do it after work every night.

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

My co-workers are very supportive, both when it comes to work and when we just need to talk. They are upbeat, generous, and a joy to be around.

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

Definitely. Each action taken and letter sent is done with the clients' interests and wishes in mind. Everything I do can potentially impact the clients I work for, and the feeling is invaluable.

What is your most treasured possession that you've obtained during your stay in Japan thus far and why?

My lanyard that I received from the Firm. I bring it everywhere I go, because I have everything I need inside it when I go outside. It makes me laugh sometimes because everybody thinks I am going to work, even on weekends.

What is the funniest thing that happened to you since you arrived in Japan?

Losing my lanyard at Universal Studios Japan while on the Harry Potter 4D ride, and then having to utilize my annual USJ pass just to get my lanyard back. I panicked a lot when I first realized it was missing, because it felt like I had lost my identity, but after the fact, it has become a very funny memory.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Learning to prioritize between tasks as the work comes in during the day. Developing the right kind of confidence in my work so that my co-workers can also learn to trust my judgement and value my input.

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

I have learned that with perseverance and a positive outlook, I can do anything I want to, once I have set my mind to it. The rewards of working here far outweigh any complaints that come to mind.

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

Being part of a global team gives me an opportunity to meet new people from all over the world. However, it is not just an opportunity for me to meet people and discover their cultures; it is also an opportunity for me to share mine.

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

having a relaxed break at home, a friend's house, or roaming the streets of Japan. There's also the occasional yakiniku all-you-can-eat splurge.

I am looking forward to experience ...

the traditional tea ceremony, hanabi displays, and cultural festivals. Going to different regions of Japan and riding on the shinkansen.

What advice would you give to newbies?

"The difference between perseverance and obstinacy is that one comes from a strong will, and the other from a strong won't."
There is worth in seeing through what you have decided to do, if the only reason you have decided not to, is that it is too difficult

Of all the adjectives floating in your brain, give us three that best describe your life in Japan

Eventful. Breathtaking. Memorable.