Josey Vovers was a participant in the 2017 Development Studies Professional Practicum from The University of Adelaide.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I saw this program as a great opportunity to gain experience in a workplace internationally, increase my knowledge, experience a different culture and develop networks.
Q: How will the Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career? Would you like to return to Indonesia again in future?
The program has increased my networks in Indonesia and in Australia, has given me experience working internationally and showed me where work opportunities are internationally.
Q: What organisation will you be interning with? (Explain your roles and responsibilities)
My internship was with the Australian Awards Indonesia, an organisation that provides scholarships and opportunities for Indonesians to study in Australia. One of my roles within the organisation was to assist in the organisation and planning of events managed by the organisation, typically targeted at Alumni of the scholarships or at the request of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. My other role was establishing an automated process for evaluations of monitoring data at a team-based level, allowing for a more efficient reporting process as well as being able to improve timeframes of business improvement strategies.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
I find the work culture fairly similar to that of Australia. The most significant difference I see is the relaxed nature of the work environment in Jakarta in comparison to Australia, the religious considerations and the social lunch breaks. In Australia we would typically need to arrive and leave at specified times, there are no spaces for people to practice their religion and lunch breaks are not spent with co-workers the majority of the time.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
I like to travel and experience different areas of the country. I find this is a great way to meet different people and really immerse yourself in cultural practices, whilst gain a better understanding of the natural environment.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?
This experience has provided me with a brief understanding of the workplace and daily life. I would love to work here sometime in the future. There are many parts of Indonesia that I would love to explore.
Q: Favourite Indonesian food?
Gado-Gado, a vegetable dish with a peanut sauce
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
AYO!
Q: Favourite place to eat?
The local warungs.
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
I recently spent a weekend exploring Krakatoa and understanding the history of the earth changing eruption that occurred in the 1800’s and seeing the changes overtime in the area. In addition to this I also spent time in Bogor-Lido, south of Jakarta, where we made friends with a local and he took us on a tour of his village where we experienced a traditional wedding, met his family and toured the area. In addition to these adventures I have also explored Jakarta where I can going to restaurants and tourist attractions, such as the monument, Eco park and Old Town.