Aimee Clark is a student from Monash University. Aimee undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga during the winter university break with the assistance of a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant in 2019.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I decided to undertake ILSC to gain credit towards my Indonesian Studies minor at my home university – Monash. The thought of being able to immerse myself into a culture so different to Australia as part of my degree really interested me. I have always wanted to learn more about Indonesia as it is so close to Australia. The opportunity to study a short course tailored to my interests was very appealing.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
I did receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant and this contributed to majority of my expenses in Indonesia which helped immensely.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
During ILSC the most challenging aspect was that all my classes were spoken entirely in Indonesian. This was quite different to my Indonesian classes at Monash, but it turned out to be extremely beneficial for me.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Indonesian Language Short Course influence your future career or study?
Improving my Indonesian language through ILSC has opened up a lot of doors for me as I am much more confident in speaking Indonesian, and I am able to understand a lot more than I previously did.
Q: How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia?
Prior to ILSC I had completed 5 Indonesian language units at Monash. Classes in Australia often use a lot of English, however the class structure is similar to ILSC. In-country Indonesian language learning has significantly improved my language skills as I was constantly exposed to the language for 3 weeks and learning continued outside the classroom too.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
I would love to return to Indonesia for future study, perhaps during a post-graduate degree or potentially work in the future!
Q: What did you enjoy most about the course?
I really enjoyed the field trips and local interviews that were part of the program, as I was able to practice my language skills in a real-world setting.
Q: What did you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
During my spare time in Salatiga I liked to visit the local cafes with friends and visit tourists sites in the region.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
Mie Goreng was definitely my favourite Indonesian food and Aromia was my favourite place to eat.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Ayo!