Prudence Chen is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from The University of Sydney. Prudence undertook the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course in July 2021.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
Because I thought it was a great opportunity during my break to expand my knowledge about the Indonesian culture. After reflection, I realised it was probably beneficial to actually understand the culture of Indonesia rather than just learning the language. Therefore, I thought ILSC was the perfect opportunity to learn more about Indonesia and interact with local students and teachers.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant?
Yes – this has contributed immensely to my experience of learning Indonesian because it gives me the opportunity to interact with other students learning Indonesian and share our experiences.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this virtual experience?
Being able to meet with other students and teachers who are passionate about Indonesia’s culture and language.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about your experience on the Virtual ILSC?
The most challenging aspect of ILSC is not being able to travel to Indonesia due to the current circumstances. However, undertaking this course virtually has also been super helpful.
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the Virtual ILSC to your previous experiences?
Yes – learning Indonesian in Australia is quite interesting. There are not a lot of students studying the language when compared to other languages, so the classes are often smaller. Studying Indonesian through in-country, it has allowed me to meet with a lot of Australia students who study Indonesian and also have Indonesian teachers teach us.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
Yes – I have definitely learnt about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program through the language exposure session, where we are able to interact with students from UKSW and learn about their life in Indonesia. It was also achieved through the culture sharing session, where we were able to explain different aspects of Australia to the students, and compare it from Indonesia.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
My proficiency in the Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC will influence my future study and career as I will be able to understand more about different cultures and be able to speak to more Indonesian people.
Q: Would you recommend this virtual program to your friends?
Definitely!
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Sama-sama
Q: Describe your experience of the Virtual ILSC in three words:
- Enjoyable
- Beneficial
- Extraordinary