Tom Francis was a participant on the 2023 Business Professional Practicum. Tom is studying a Bachelor of Commerce at The University of Western Australia. Tom received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support his participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS internship program?
Needed experience in my field.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? Do you think the NCP is an important initiative? If yes, why? The NCP is a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates on experiences such as the Professional Practica.
Yes.
Q: Where did you live in Indonesia (Kos, homestay, hotel, rental etc.)? Any tips for prospective students on finding accommodation?
Hotel and rental.
Q: How have you found the academic components of this program – i.e. the language classes/seminars?
Informative.
Q: What organisation are you interning with? (Explain your role and responsibilities)
Government of Western Australia office for investment and mining. I did research on sectors and found information requested by Australian companies.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
Positive. Like Australia.
Q: What are the main skills you have learnt during your internship?
Time management and working in a team.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this experience?
Travelling.
Q. Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this program? If yes, how was this achieved?
Yes, language class and placement.
Q. How will the internship benefit or influence your future career?
Good on a CV.
Q. Would you recommend this program to your friends?
Yes.
Q. Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Bagus.