Hector Warren-Fraser is a student from the The Australian National University. Hector undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I decided to head back to Salatiga for a second time because my first trip really inspired me to continue learning Indonesian and gave me an amazing in-country experience. What’s more, the language teaching at LTC it great and has been the perfect crash course to refresh my own Indonesian.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
The intensity of the class can be quite draining but not in the sense that it is stressful or too difficult, but rather the amount of listening and speaking Indonesian throughout the day takes a lot of effort.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Indonesian Language Short Course influence your future career or study?
This trip has certainly brought me back up to the Indonesian language level I need to be at to continue my Language major at an advanced level after a prolonged break from learning Indonesian.
Q: How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia?
Yes, I have nearly completed an undergraduate Indonesian language major at ANU in Canberra. The learning experience is radically different, both with pros and cons. The main difference is the intensity. While I might have 3-5 hours of Indonesian tutorials in Australia, I have fifteen days of solid Indonesian learning in a row. I find the immersive experience, both at school and more generally helps consolidate vocab which otherwise would have to be wrote learnt at great personal cost. But at the same time a committed student can learn far more vocabularies over a twelve week semester than in a busy three weeks.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
Most certainly. Hopefully for both, plus holidays!
Q: What did you enjoy most about the course?
I have enjoyed the classroom teaching because my little group has struck a good dynamic, as well as meeting a whole new bunch of people, some of whom I will remain friends with.
Q: What did you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
Eating or spending time with friends, if they will have me. Also reading while the sun sets behind the mountains.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
Soto ayam…a small warung that hangs of the road and has an unhindered view out to the mountains.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Sok gengsi.
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