Jessica Murray was a participant in the 2020 Development Studies Professional Practicum from UNSW. Jessica is studying a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering. Jessica received a $3000 New Colombo Plan mobility grant to support her participation on this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I had never been to Indonesia and I thought the program would be a good opportunity to transfer some university credits and at the same time explore the Indonesian language, culture and society.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, I did, it certainly gave me more flexibility and options to travel in Indonesia. I am very grateful for that.
Q: How will the Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career? Would you like to return to Indonesia again in future?
Yes, it definitely taught me a lot. Traveling to Indonesia and being able to learn Bahasa Indonesia and practice in my internship placement was a very valuable experience. I have also met many local Indonesians who are very friendly and I think cultural exchange is very important.
Q: What organisation did you intern with?
I interned with Indonesia Mengajar, an organisation that send young teachers to remote communities in Indonesia. I was involved in researching grant providers and fundraising platforms and proposing a draft grant proposal. I attended meetings, hang out with work colleagues after work, it is a great organization.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
It’s definitely different. It was more relaxed and easy going. When I got stressed. I learnt that santai is part of the work culture.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in the future?
Yes, if I ever have the opportunity. Mungkin after graduation.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
Trying different foods and talk to local people in Bahasa Indonesia.
Q: Favourite place to eat? Favourite Indonesian food?
My favourite Indonesian food would be Bakso, mie ayam dan buah naga. Enak sekali.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
Gue balik.
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
I went to Yogyakarta and Jakarta.