MyBlog: 日本へ行きます! (Nippon e ikimasu!)

I received my first offer today since I resigned from Canon; and guess what: it is an assignment to Japan! :) I don't know if I actually prefer this to the local assignment (because both were probable offers during the last time I was interviewed), but I guess I am nonetheless very excited about the prospect of going back to Japan - although I have to wave goodbye (for the time being) to my dream job of doing research and further studies. In the end, I think taking the job is the practical choice - one of my seniors in La Salle told me some time ago that I should grab opportunities, don't wait for something that may or may not happen. Well, this is most definitely an opportunity worth grabbing.

The salary is relatively higher than usual similar offers, even after considering that no bonuses will be given. There will still be transportation allowance on top of the salary, and the company will shoulder the living expenses. I will once again be assigned as project manager for an embedded network communications project. So it's pretty much well within my experience, and yes, comfort zone (for better or worse). I may be transferred later, but still to a project in Japan - although I was told that when that happens, I might be given the option to choose to return to the Philippines instead. I was also told that I will have equal opportunities to climb the corporate ladder while in Japan, even though I'm a Filipino. So it's financially good for the short-term with mid- to long-term possibilities for growth. Of course, being in Japan by itself is for me a really big perk already.

As of now, there are still a lot of personal issues to resolve - particularly with my girlfriend. Personally, I think it's for the best if both of us could find some way to go there. I know it will be a milestone for our relationship - a very big milestone. :)

One catch: I only have until Monday to consider everything since the target flight date will already be one month from now! Therefore, meaning: I should start with the paperworks immediately! Everything is suddenly moving so fast. If ever, I have to wrap things up with La Salle by next week because I will immediately be put into a Nihongo crash course in the one month prior to my trip - I'll be in a full time work by next Wed at best!

So fast. I guess that's the way life-changing events happen. Fast. Decisions made in a split-second (or in my case, a split-weekend :p ), altering the course of my life. I always pray that God will guide my decisions, of course - that whatever happens, I will take the path that would please Him. For those who know me: yeah, I know that's an odd uncharacteristic comment coming from me. ;)

A new turning point: this is what it is. It's once again time to make a decision.

Now, if ever I do choose to accept the offer, I hope my visa application will go well despite the tight schedule.