Hello everyone! I'm a 27M Brazilian who was recruited by a major Japanese automobile manufacturer in April this year as a new graduate. While I'm grateful for the opportunity, there are a few things on my mind that I'd love to get your advice on.
I came to Japan in November 2021 to pursue a Master’s degree and graduated from a prestigious STEM university this year. I didn’t land my dream job and ended up in the automobile industry, which is somewhat related to my thesis but not exactly my passion.
Since joining, I’ve been through 3 months of training that felt quite unnecessary (group activities, company culture, etc.), and I'm still not doing real work. I also have another month of factory training ahead. It feels like I won't be doing anything significant during my first year and that it might take years to start meaningful work.
I knew the Japanese working culture is different, with a strong hierarchical structure and slow progression, and while this means less stress and a chance to improve my Japanese and engineering skills, I feel like I'm falling behind my friends. At 27, I’m starting my career late due to a double degree in France and a year as a data analyst before my Master’s.
On top of that, my current work isn’t very related to my Master’s thesis, making me feel like I wasted my efforts. My boyfriend lives in Tokyo (where I did my Master’s), and being in the countryside feels isolating.
I’m considering looking for a job in Tokyo with a more Westernized working culture and more aligned with my Master’s thesis. Does this make sense? Am I being too demanding or unrealistic? I feel bad thinking about this so soon after starting, especially since the company isn’t bad.
I’d really appreciate any advice or opinions on my situation.
TL;DR: I'm a 27-year-old Brazilian working at a Japanese automobile manufacturer since April. After extensive training, I feel I'm not doing meaningful work and worry about falling behind my peers. My job isn't closely related to my Master's thesis, and I feel isolated away from my boyfriend in Tokyo. I'm considering looking for a job in Tokyo with a more Westernized culture and better alignment with my interests. Am I being too demanding or unrealistic?
by banavu147