Connor Foley is a participant in the 2019 Journalism Professional Practicum from the University of South Australia. Connor is studying a Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing as a Bachelor of Arts majoring in International Relations. He received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support his participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
I got an email from my university and thought it sounded like a great thing to do. I tend to jump at any opportunity that can put me overseas and Jakarta struck me as such an interesting place to visit – not to mention all the educational benefits I would get out of it.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, I received the grant and relied heavily on it. To be honest, I doubt I would’ve been able to take part in the program without it.
Q: How will the Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career?
The journalism opportunities and hands-on experience I got with ACICIS was something I probably couldn’t have got anywhere else. Getting to intern with the Jakarta Post was a privilege and the program will hopefully help as I continue to progress on the path to becoming a journalist.
Q: What organisation did you intern with? (Explain your roles and responsibilities)
I was an intern on the World Desk at the Jakarta Post. I was able to attend events and write news pieces on a few different current affairs.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
Work life is much more relaxed in Indonesia and it can take some time to adjust at first. While this means you may need a bit more self-initiative at times, it makes for a relaxed, friendly and very pleasant working experience. If you treat your work peers with respect and meet deadlines, you will be sure to have a great time.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?
I’m almost certain I will return to Indonesia to work at some stage. Perhaps as early as next year!
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
I spent a lot of time socialising at my kos (with both fellow ACICIS students and locals alike). Besides this I usually love finding good food, cheap bars, and just exploring the wide array of things Jakarta has to offer.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
Bagus – Good or great. (Shout out to Dette – the best Bahasa Indonesia teacher ever).
Q: Favourite place to eat? Favourite Indonesian food?
The street food out the front of our Kos was the best. Favourite food would have to be nasi goreng.
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
The program took place in Jakarta, but I also made visits on the weekends to Bogor, Bandung and Yogyakarta.