Rose Samson is a 2016 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from La Trobe University. Rose is studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.
This is Rose’s first semester with ACICIS, and she is undertaking the Agriculture Semester Program at Bogor Agricultural University.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I visited Indonesia last year and completely connected to the place, the people, the environment, the food, the weather! I focus my study around food security, the environmental, social, political & economic factors that influence our ability to access healthy, sustainable food. I hope to work in this field after my studies in Indonesia. I hope to learn about agricultural practice, the language & culture here to better enable me to do this.
Q: What classes are you currently enrolled in?
- Tropical biodiversity and conservation: Focusing mainly on an Indonesian context, looking at concepts and issues in biodiversity conservation.
- Pest and diseases of horticulture crops and foods – studying phenology , life cycles, damage and control methods of rice, maize, soybean and other major crops grown in Indonesia.
- Integrated pest management – the management of pests, weeds & diseases using a multidisciplinary approach including biological, mechanical, cultural and economic controls.
- Principles of Plant biotechnology: Looking at techniques of tissue collection and other biotechnology techniques, their current application and use in Indonesia & globally.
Q: Are you hoping to get involved in any clubs/societies at the University?
Yes, I am hoping to be involved with ‘Green Campus’, a group promoting sustainable practices on campus. I would also like to meet up with the hiking club.
Q: What extra-curricular activities are you hoping to do while in Indonesia?
Mainly getting out of the city when I can to explore the mountains, waterfalls and islands, looking forward to a night dive in Pulau Seribu. Also have already been involved in a conservation project in mangrove planting in North java.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
It used to be gado-gado, I still love it but have discovered Padang food (food from Sumatra), soto padang is amazing, so is rendang.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian word or phrase?
Tidak apa-apa. No what what when literally translated, but actually means no worries.
Q: What is your favourite place to eat?
Good Warung Padang close by to my house, always the best selection of padang delicacies.
Q: Are you going to undertake an internship while in Indonesia?
Yes I will be for four weeks after semester. At the moment I hope to organise it with coffee growers on Java and Sumartra to get into the field. If this is not possible, a research project with ICRAF in Bogor or possibly working with a community development centre in Sembalun, Lombok focusing on increasing sustainable agricultural practice & increasing income