Jordyn Archer is a University of the Sunshine Coast student undertaking ACICIS’ International Relations Program (IRP) at Parahyangan Catholic University.
Jordyn is studying in Indonesia with the support of a $6,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant.
Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I was really interested in the International Relations Program that was offered by ACICIS and was excited to experience living in Bandung.
What classes/units are you currently enrolled in?
Conflict resolutions – Looking at the factors and dynamics of conflicts.
NGO and civil society empowerment – Looking at different NGO’s and their contribution to society. Assignments include creating our own NGO.
Bahasa Indonesia Intermediate – Improving in my ability to speak, read and write in Bahasa Indonesia.
Global Issues – Looking at issues which impact the world, and societies across the world.
Indonesian Politics – Looking at the history of Indonesian politics through the perspective of an Indonesian lecturer, which makes it really interesting.
Regionalism in South East Asia – Looking at South East Asia as a region, and the influence of ASEAN.
Are you involved in any clubs/societies at the university?
Yes – I’ve been volunteering with the HungerBank, who provide food and clothing items to the homeless.
How will the International Relations Program influence your future career or study?
I think the International Relations Program has helped increase my proficiency in Bahasa Indonesian, which will help in my future career. I also think that I have a better understanding of the Indonesian perspective of the bilateral relationship between Australia and Indonesia, which will shape the way I conduct myself when working with Indonesian people in the future.
How does studying International Relations from an Indonesian perspective differ to International Relations from an Australian perspective?
I think the biggest difference is understanding what aspects of International Relations Indonesian people find most relevant, and what international actors Indonesia work closest with. An example is, Indonesia’s aspirations to build an economically and politically strengthened region through their participation in ASEAN.
What do you like to do in your spare time in Bandung?
I like escaping the busy city life by going to explore the beautiful waterfalls, mountains and rice fields. I also like finding new cafes to eat at too!
Favourite Indonesian food/ Favourite place to eat:
My favourite Indonesian food is nasi kunning or gado gado, and my favourite place to eat is any nasi padang warung.
Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Sampai jumpa!!
What places in Indonesia have you visited during your Semester so far?
I have had the opportunity to travel to Yogyakarta and will be heading to Lombok, Jakarta and Ubud while I’m studying here.