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Going around and seeing the sights in the new place are some of the many perks. Meeting a
lot of people and exposure to a different culture are things to look forward too. However, being
separated from family and loved ones can be very difficult.

1. You have been required to travel immediately to attend an important busi-
ness trip. You didn’t have the time to pack some important things in the of-
fice. Imagine that you are talking to your office assistant. Give him or her
instructions on how to get some important documents to you who happens
to be on the other side of the world.

a. Important documents in your drawer sent through rush courier
b. personal effects like jacket and personal planner at your office cubicle

Sample answer:
Hi Gino! May I request that you do me a favor? I was rushing to get a flight here in Japan in time
for my training. In my haste, I forgot the documents I need for the training. I placed all of them
in a brown envelope on my office table. It’s labeled “Japan Training.” Also, please get my jacket.
It’s on top of my chair, and also my personal planner which is inside my table drawer. Put all
these things in a small box and send it to me at this address - #14 Sensei Apartelle, Kinosawa
Road, Hokkaido. I already sent the money that you will use for sending the package. Thank you
very much!

2. You are working overseas. Your roommate is experiencing the problems be-
low. What advice would you give him so that he can overcome the given
problems?
a. homesickness
b. language barrier – not being able to speak the main language used at the
workplace

Sample answer:
You have to be strong to overcome your homesickness. You can display the photos of your
loved ones inside your room and at your office cubicle, so that seeing their faces can somehow
strengthen your resolve that you are working and sacrificing for their sakes. You may also want
to have a regular talk with them, so that they won’t seem so far from you. Use technology to
keep in touch with them. Email or chat every day if you wish and exchange photos regularly.

In order to overcome the language barrier at the workplace, you may want to buy helpful books
that can teach you helpful words and expressions. Get a handy dictionary and bring it with you
all the time, so you can consult it anytime. Study through the Internet. I’m sure there are online
courses that you can take. You may also enroll in short-term practical courses that can help you
get by at work. Also, spend some time talking to friendly office mates who can help you learn
the language. You should be able to approach these friends if you are experiencing some com-
munication problems at the office.

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