Matthew Atherton is a student from Monash University. Matthew undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga with the assistance of a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant in 2020.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
To improve my Indonesian, while also gaining cultural understanding and having a blast!
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes. Without the NCP mobility grant, I could not have afforded this trip. It really facilitated the experience.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
How quickly everything happens! You start and before you know it, you’re onto the final presentation and test.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Indonesian Language Short Course influence your future career or study?
As someone who is studying teaching, it really helped me gain confidence in speaking Indonesian and teaching others
Q: How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia?
Indonesian is my major in Australia! The difference is in the intensity of the program, which really helps in building fluency.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
Yes! I would love to return and do a semester! I would also one day love to come here and teach English.
Q: What did you enjoy most about the course?
The content is explained in such a fantastic and thorough manner.
Q: What did you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
Enjoy the awesome cafe culture and hangout with friends!
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
Definitely Aromia Coffee! Amazing coffee and great food. My favourite Indonesian dish would have to be Ayam Geprek.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Titi DJ’, which stands for hati hati di Jalan.