Jessica Glassock is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from University of New South Wales. Jessica undertook the Virtual Indonesian Language Short Course in July 2021.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I wanted to improve my language skills to facilitate further career opportunities after I graduate from university.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant?
Yes I did! It was easy to organise and a very good perk!
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this virtual experience?
I’ve enjoyed the opportunity for conversational learning, where we apply what we have learnt during the lessons and then have a normal conversation about it with Indonesian student helpers.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about your experience on the Virtual ILSC?
I found the large amount of vocab to be a challenge but this doubled as a good part of the course as it challenged me to expand my Indonesian vocab.
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the Virtual ILSC to your previous experiences?
Yes, I have been studying Indonesian at university. This online course was more time intensive and required a lot more daily commitment but this was good as it pushed me to study more both in and out of class.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this virtual program? If yes, how was this achieved?
Yes, the virtual learning worked out better than I expected. I remained engaged for the entire zoom class time because the class activities were varied and interesting. Of course, I am still super keen to visit Salatiga in person one day!
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
In the future I am hoping to work in the maritime logistics space, and being proficient in the Indonesian language would support my interest in being posted internationally.
Q: Would you recommend this virtual program to your friends?
I would absolutely recommend this course to a friend! It’s a program that is making the best of the current pandemic.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase:
Perpustakaan
Q: Describe your experience of the Virtual ILSC in three words:
Engaging, worthwhile & innovative