Kimberley Wooldridge was a participant in the 2024 Sustainable Tourism Professional Practicum from Griffith University. Kimberley is studying a Bachelor of International Tourism and Hotel Management. Kimberley received a $4,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support her participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS internship program?
I thought it would be a good experience to have under my belt and I’d get a more up-close look at the tourism industry in action.
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. I think it’s important to assist all sorts of people to get this kind of experience, no matter their economical standing.
Q: Where did you live in Indonesia (Kos, homestay, hotel, rental etc.)? Any tips for prospective students on finding accommodation?
Hotel. Do your research and decide based on your preferred level of comfort, security, and price range.
Q: How have you found the academic components of this program – i.e. the language classes/seminars?
The language classes were great, I had a lot of fun with them. The seminars were very informative and I liked that we got actual field professionals as speakers.
Q: Which organisation are you interning with? (Explain your role and responsibilities)
Travelxism. We assisted with ongoing projects and helped with the planning process.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
It’s a lot more sociable and flexible.
Q: What did you get up to in your free-time? i.e. in the evenings and on weekends.
I went on a tour or went for a walk.
Q: What are the main skills you have learnt during your internship?
I learnt how to compile important information and important steps for creating a tour plan.
Q: What surprised you about Indonesia? Any new insights?
The amount of attention I’d get as a white person. A lot of people coming up to me and asking for photos. It’s also a very social and cooperative community.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this experience?
Experiencing life in Indonesia and seeing another side of being in another country away from being a tourist.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
I learnt a little through talking with people about Indonesian life and experiencing it for myself through day-to-day life.
Q: How will the internship benefit or influence your future career?
I now have personal experience in the field of tourism and can bring solid advice to the table.
Q: Would you recommend this program to your friends??
Yes.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Terima Kasih = thank you. Always a helpful phrase.