James Haley is a 2019 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant Recipient from The University of Western Australia. James undertook the Agriculture Semester Program at Bogor Agricultural University in Semester 2, 2019.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Agriculture Semester Program (ASP)?
To learn a new culture and experience life overseas and to further my Bahasa.
Q: What classes/units are you currently enrolled in?
- Plant Biotechnology (lots of labwork manipulating plants)
- Seed Science (agricultural seed industry and processes)
- Indonesian Ethnobotany (relationship of indonesian people and the plants around them)
- Entrepreneurial Experience (built a business, marketed and sold our product)
Q:How has your study in Indonesia influenced your understanding of the environment in the region?
I have a deeper understanding of the pressures on rice production, space as a limiting factor, and the importance of staple foods such as rice, soy, cassava and various fruits.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Bogor?
Go to cafes or Cinema XXI, or visit Kebun Raya.
Q: Are you undertaking an internship while in Indonesia (brief description)?
Yes – I am placed at PT Botani Seed Indonesia where I am undertaking several roles including assisting with marketing, sales, and various clerical duties. I also sourced some seedlings to expand the plant portfolio of the company.
Q: Favourite Indonesian food:
Gado-gado.
Q: Favourite place to eat:
Monarchy Bistro / Baked & Brewed / Bakso stall on Kampus
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
“Bucin”
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your semester so far?
Jakarta, Semarang, Subang, Pulau Seribu, Bandung
Q: Your testimonial regarding IPB?
Was a really great experience overall – I learned a lot, not only in my classes but also from just living in another culture. I enjoyed learning the language and cultural customs as well as trying as many Indonesian things as I could (like spicy sambal). I will definitely be back!