Bethany Hosking is a New Colombo Plan Scholar from Monash University. Bethany undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga in 2019.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I decided to undertake ILSC in the hope that I could learn enough Bahasa Indonesian to be able to converse with students and lecturers in my upcoming semester exchange at Universitas Gadjah Mada.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
I am undertaking the ILSC under a New Colombo Plan Scholarship. Without this scholarship and the support of DFAT I would not have been able to come here, so I feel a sense of responsibility to give back and really do my part in cultivating Australia-Indonesia relations.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
The ILSC classes are very fast paced and intensive, so sometimes it can be hard to keep up and remember all of the new content we are taught each day.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Indonesian Language Short Course influence your future career or study?
I anticipate that knowing some Bahasa Indonesian will certainly help me to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way while I am in Indonesia studying and interning for the next 6-12 months.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
Yes I would like to return to Indonesia.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
I have really enjoyed being able to apply what I have learnt in the ILSC outside of the classroom to make stronger connections with Indonesians, including my host mum and ACICIS buddy.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
I love exploring the city and the nature around it. This weekend for example we plan to hike one of the mountains and visit the fishing village.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
Pecal!! My host mum has made it for us a couple of times and I love it!
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Belum – ‘not yet’ (but hopefully someday!).