Emily Abbott is a student from RMIT University. Emily undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga. Emily is studying Bachelor of International Studies.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ILSC?
I wanted to challenge myself and see how much of my high school Bahasa I could remember. My course requires me to undertake 4 units of language so I thought ILSC would be a great way to finish off my degree and brush up on my language skills.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this in-country experience?
I found making friends with people everywhere you go an extremely rewarding part of the in-country experience. Whether it be students at UKSW or with the parking officers you see everyday on the walk to class, everyone was so keen to have a chat when they knew I was studying Bahasa. It’s just a valuable way to see and explore a country and language is a great way to build connection. By the end of the course, I had become friends with our regular warung owner as well as Ibus and Bapaks from our
neighbour.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
I found it difficult to accept that after not studying Indonesian for almost 4 years, my level of language wasn’t what I wanted it to be. This also proved to be a great motivator for me to try and not only great back to my proficiency in Year 12 but to go further and improve more.
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the in-country ILSC to your previous experiences?
I previously studied Indonesian all throughout high school and completed VCE Indonesian. Studying in-country is such a different experience and a great way to learn beyond the textbooks.You learn so many things about the language and culture that isn’t taught in schools. For example, slang words and greetings which are taught in VCE. In-country learning is such a great way for a well-rounded Indonesian education where you can learn language and culture at the same time. Learning doesn’t stop when class does when learning in-country. After class you must learn to navigate life in Salatiga and Indonesia with the same skills which you’re practicing in class.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this in-country program? If yes, how was this achieved?
For sure. While I chose to stay in a kos, I was able to do things that a typical Indonesian university student would do. Additionally, the program offers so many opportunities to learn more about Indonesian and Javanese culture from seminars to group activities and learning experiences.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
The social aspect of the course has been really enjoyable and an unexpected bonus. With 24 people at different levels of their Indonesian, I have really enjoyed learning from others in the course. We have been able to do so much together in our 3 weeks in Salatiga.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
As a student of international relations, I think learning Indonesian is so important for Australians. I believe if I want to work in foreign affairs, learning culture and language for a place like Indonesia is not just an asset but should be a requirement.
Q: Would you recommend this program to your friends?
For sure, it is a perfect way to tick off a subject at university while learning and growing for yourself.
Q: Describe your experience of the in-country ILSC in three words!
Intensive, whirlwind and challenging.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Nongkrong.