Nishan Gill-Misson was a participant in the 2021 Virtual Law Professional Practicum. Nishan is studying a Bachelor of Criminology with the degree of Bachelor of Laws at Western Sydney University. Nishan received a $3000 New Colombo Plan mobility grant to support his participation on this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I was adamant about taking some summer study at my home university. However, as I was enrolling, I received an email from my course advisor about the Law Professional Practicum 2021. As I read about the program and looked at past student testimonials on the ACICIS website, I realised that this program features a range of various components. For instance, language classes, seminars, field trips, as well as a practical placement. Since I was always keen on attaining invaluable international experience, and this program had various components, it was an opportunity I could not simply miss. I then unenrolled from my summer units of study at my home university and registered for the LPP Program instead.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? Do you think the NCP is an important initiative?
Yes. The NCP is a highly significant Australian Government initiative that aims to foster a strong relationship between Australia and nations in the Indo-Pacific region. This is achieved by allowing Australian university students to study in the Indo-Pacific region, both virtually and face-to-face. These programs increase the cultural awareness of Australian students, which is a vital professional skill.
Q: How have you found the academic components of this virtual program – i.e. the language classes/seminars?
The language classes run by Bu Fitri have been enjoyable. Through Bu Fitri’s excellent teaching, I have developed a solid foundational base in Bahasa Indonesia. Although these classes were run online this year, Bu Fitri set highly engaging activities that aided the learning process. These classes were a massive highlight of the program.
The seminars and tutorials were also quite interesting. In these sessions, I got to hear from top Indonesian legal professionals and academics. These sessions provided me with invaluable insights into the Indonesian legal system.
Q: What organisation did you intern with?
For my placement, I interned at the Jakarta International Law Office (JILO). As an intern, I had the opportunity to listen in on JILO staff team conferences and be involved in several case analysis tasks. Through the guidance of Pak Luthfi and Pak Rachman, I felt incredibly supported while interning at JILO. These mentors ensured I was able to engage with a variety of different areas of Indonesian law. Occasionally, I was also given many ad hoc tasks, such as reading reports and preparing presentations on selected topics. The JILO staff were always keen on hearing my thoughts and opinions.
Q: How have you found the work culture (albeit online) of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
From my online internship at JILO, I found the staff to be highly compassionate and open-minded. The team understood that as an LPP Program participant, I had to balance multiple commitments and responsibilities. Whenever I had a question or wanted some assistance, the JILO staff were always more than happy to answer my queries and concerns. Work experience at JILO had similarities with Australia, but I found the JILO team to be exceptionally friendly and easy-going.
Q: What are the main skills you have learnt during your virtual internship?
Some of the skills I have attained is remaining level-headed, patient and resilient. Since the internship was online, there were many technical difficulties and distractions. The program taught me to stay accountable and motivated despite this. My internship at JILO also enhanced my proficiency in conducting case analysis and critiques.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this virtual experience?
Although all components were engaging, I would have to say both the placement at JILO and the Indonesian language classes were my favourite components. The JILO placement allowed me to intern in an Indonesian law firm and make new connections with Indonesian legal professionals. Conversely, the language classes solidified my language capacities, which helped me communicate with the JILO team better.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
Yes, I attained greater cultural awareness and understanding through a range of various components in the program. One way was through the Indonesian language classes. Not only did these classes provide me with a foundational base of Indonesian language skills, but they also introduced me to different Indonesian cultural norms and practices. An example was the Kecak dance by Balinese Hindus. Seminars, tutorials, and field trips also enhanced my understanding of Indonesian culture.
Q: How will the virtual internship benefit or influence your future career?
This virtual program will benefit my future career as it has provided me with invaluable international legal experience. Since Indonesia is a hotspot for global investment and has a rising economy, many international legal firms are placing some of their offices in Indonesia. Therefore, having familiarity with the work culture can be highly beneficial later down the track.
Q: Would you recommend this virtual program to your friends?
Definitely. If you are looking to take some study over the summer, attain cultural awareness and learn new professional skills, then the ACICIS Professional Practicum is an opportunity that is meant for you!
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Terima kasih banyak!
Q: Describe your experience of the virtual internship program in three words:
Unique, highly enjoyable, and extremely rewarding!