Kyle Cavanagh is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient from The Australian National University. Kyle undertook the Public Health Study Tour in November-December 2022. Kyle is studying Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine and Surgery.
Q:Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS Public Health Study Tour?
I had always wanted to go to a south east Asian country, so when the opportunity to go to Indonesia AND study public health I jumped on it.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
I was fortunate enough to receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. This grant enabled me to cherish my time in Indonesia to the full as I wasn’t worried about how I was going to pay the trip off.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about your experience on the PHST?
The most challenging aspect of the tour was defiantly trying to get around the distinct language barrier between myself and the locals. But this was made easier by the friendly staff and buddies who were very experienced in both Indonesian and English!
Q: What public health issues in Indonesia have you become more interested in/aware of as a result of this tour?
The PHST opened my eyes to the issue of the social and religious aspect of health in Indonesia. I wasn’t really aware of the major impact that these aspects can have on a countries health system.
Q: What was your favourite field trip?
My Favourite field trip was our trip to the World Mosquito Program in Yogyakarta! This field trip was my favourite as I am very interested in the cross over between immunology and pubic health, and this tour had both.
Q: How do you think the Public Health Study Tour will influence your future career or studies?
I have always wanted to pursue a career in medicine, leaning more towards a career as a physician. However, this tour has opened my eyes to careers that lie in the intersection of medicine and public health.
Q:What did you most enjoy about the seminar series?
I enjoyed learning from Indonesia’s top public health lecturers, who not only had years of real world experience, but also had a true passion for their subjects.
Q: What was your favourite aspect about visiting Indonesia?
Meeting the buddies!
The buddies from the Indonesian universities were so welcoming and made my experience in Indonesia great! They were able to show me the true side of Indonesia, that a holiday usually wouldn’t take you to.