I looked for an international job because I wanted to have a unique skillset. I picked Japan because of excellent work ethic and economic ranking. Personally, I’ve been in tune with Japanese culture since I was a kid. Japanese music fueled my guitar hobby when I was younger!
Interview about the internship
Listen to the discussion held by two former intern staff members !
Why did you come to Japan?
Marcus
Harshita
Being an international management student, I have read a lot about the management system in Japan.
I wanted to experience first hand how a Japanese company works. In addition to that, having lived amongst people from various cultures, Japanese was one that I had not fully experienced and my thus my curiosity brought me to Japan. Of course, the beautiful landscapes of the country add brownie points.
Marcus
I guess you and I arrived with an entirely different viewpoint right? I came knowing that it was my
dream to live in Japan, while you came out of cursory interest. Although I think it’s amazing how working at DMR had allowed both of us to enjoy fully an experience in Japan regardless of our background knowledge!
Harshita
What I really appreciate about DMR is how everyone is interested in sharing of cultures. It is humbling when Okamoto san suggests me places to visit in Japan. This really helps me to enjoy my experience in Japan.
How is the work so far in a Japanese company?
Harshita
It has been great. I have learned a lot about the Japanese work ethics. Here, people are serious about their work and punctuality is of utmost importance. Slacking is not an option and thus everybody is productive!
Marcus
Working in a Japanese company feels like I’m sharpening my edges. In Canada where I’m from, you might not be able to get away with some things, but working in Japan has really refined my work ethic to be more punctual, organized, and rule-abiding. I have no doubts that I can work in any company, now that I’ve worked in Japan.
Harshita
I fully agree with you. Working in Japan has taught me what real work ethic is like. It has taught me to respect other people’s time and opinions.
Now I know that the strong Japanese work ethic that I had read about is not just in books but it actually exists.
What are your thoughts on working so far?
Marcus
My current thoughts working in my projects are great. I’m glad to be able to take reins on an assignment and be able to see my progress and work. I love to have control and management, because it tests my abilities of creativity.
Harshita
DMR has given me the opportunity to manage different aspects of my own project. This not only makes me feel more responsible but it also makes me feel like an important member of the company. It is rare that a company trusts an intern fully with a project. I am really glad that DMR has faith in its interns.
Thoughts on life in Japan, overall culture, interesting things, surprising things, experiences, etc.
Marcus
Some things to take notes! Japan crosswalks and roads are all oriented to the left, unlike Canada.
If you are ever walking in Japan, make sure to stay to the left.
Harshita
Life in Japan for me is best depicted through a steep curve. Starting at the bottom when I found
everything too hard due to language barriers and a cultural shock! However, in a matter of a few weeks, once I started to understand how everything functions, I think this country is amazing. Not only are the people always willing to help but also the culture is so different from most others that I am extremely greatful to be given an opportunity to spend a few months here.
Marcus
Yes, although I have to admit the more Japanese you know the better your experience will be here.
Although I arrived in Japan already with the resolve to become fluent, you’ve learned some Japanese anyways and it’s helped you at restaurants, and tourists spots already right? It’s quite good how DMR can be such a supportive environment to foster our Japanese speaking skills.
Harshita
Yes that is true. I have learned words and phrases that help me to get by. But, from my experience here in Japan, I have felt that people are really nice and responsive. I have been in situations where people who do not understand English at all have had the patience to understand what I am saying even if it sounds gibberish to them.
Marcus-san and Harshita-san, thank you !
Interns Interview Interns Interview Interns Interview Interns Interview Interns Interview Interns Interview