Lottie van Wijck is a private applicant. Lottie undertook the Flexible Language Immersion Program (FLIP) in 2025.
Why did you decide to undertake the Acicis program?
I really wanted to undertake a longer duration program in Indonesia to consolidate some of my existing Bahasa skills while expanding my proficiency, confidence and understanding. further, I was also keen to deepen my understanding of Indonesian broader society, culture, history while experiencing Indonesian university culture and the academic landscape.
What classes/units are you currently enrolled in?
INCULS classes x 4
Cinema in Southeast Asia
Climate Justice
Gender and Politics
Are you involved in any clubs/societies at the university?
Not clubs but more one-off extracurricular experiences – eg the cultural parade, the Desa Wisata Pagak.
How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Flexible Language Immersion Program influence your future career or study?
I think Southeast Asia, and Indonesia specifically are really dynamic and inspiring places that will influence me no matter what career I choose to pursue – from creative, development, diplomatic, environmental sectors all are interwoven between Australia and our neighbours in the Indo-Pacific.
How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experiences in an Australian classroom environment?
The opportunity to do an in-country language immersion program is so unique – after learning content in class you can just go straight out into the world outside the class room and use the new knowledge and words. I also think the well connected nature of the Acicis program provides the students with a more integrated experience, teeing us up with local student buddies to explore with and even practice our Bahasa, as well as the opportunity to complete an in-country internship.
What do you like to do in your spare time in Yogyakarta?
I love to explore my own and my friends’ neighbourhoods, seeing the local places like warnings, cafes, art galleries, studios where they like to hang out. The vibrant social life of Jogja’s many students and the unique cultural status of Jogja as a special region/city means there are always parades, events, celebrations, art shows or night markets that are waiting to be explored. Other than that, if you feel like getting out of the more bustling Jogja city, I’ve found taking a shuttle bus (less than $10) an hour or two away and spending a weekend getaway in the countryside or smaller cities of Central Java like Borobudur or Salatiga, a great balance to the pace of Jogja’s student life.
What challenges did you face during your program and how did you overcome it?
I had to go to get a minor surgery on my hand after I was stung by a sea urchin while on a snorkelling weekend trip, but the Acicis staff were very supporting and accompanied me to the hospital where I saw a specialist and received quick medical care.
Favourite Indonesian word/phrase? Why?
Jongkok – this refers to a squaring position that is popular/common in Indonesia. You’ll see people of all ages popping a squat while waiting or chatting, often on the footpath or when a stool isn’t available. I always think it represents the adaptable nature of Indonesians.
What’s the most interesting new discovery or story during your stay in Indonesia?
I have loved discovering more about the Sultanates of different cities and the specific cultural traditions they practice – and the evolving nature of cultural products, art forms or practices. For example the fabric art form of Batik is a central part of life now – but was once reserved for royalty and the upper class. Now it is an element of cultural pride, and can be seen on menus, nurses’ scrubs, or sarongs combined with a modern t-shirt. The variations in pattern denote meaning, symbolism and are regionally specific so don’t wear the Jogja pattern into the Sultan tour in Solo!
Will you recommend Acicis to other students?
Yes!!! 100 times yes, it’s such an enriching and interesting experience where you are constantly inspired, and stimulated by the culture all around you. While some days you may find yourself overwhelmed, sweaty, or stuck in traffic, I think all the students will come back invigorated, with many new friends, memories, and hopefully wiser and ‘lebih lancar’.
Favorite Indonesian food / favorite place to eat?
Pecel!!!! I love fresh veggies and spicy tangy peanut sauce.
