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Journalism Professional Practicum

Madison Bogisch is a participant in the 2020 Journalism Professional Practicum from University of South Australia. Madison is studying a Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing, Bachelor of Arts (English and Creative Writing) majoring in Sociology. She received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support her participation in this program.

Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?

I initially decided to undertake the Journalism Professional Practicum (JPP) as I wanted to make the most of my time as a student. This practicum offers the opportunity to not only gain experience professionally but also cross-culturally. The idea of undertaking part of my study in Indonesia appealed to me personally as I didn’t know much about Indonesia despite it being one of Australia’s closest neighbours.

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 the $3,000 NCP Mobility Grant. The grant covered the costs of my airfares and accommodation; as my financial load was reduced, I felt it contributed to making my time in Indonesia more enjoyable.

Q: How will the Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career?

I believe the JPP will benefit my future career as a journalist in a number of ways. The Professional Practicum allowed me to develop a better cross-cultural understanding. Indonesia is vastly different to Australia and learning of the difference in both culture and media landscapes has allowed me to become more understanding and culturally aware.  Additionally, throughout the practicum I learnt to navigate a workplace in a foreign country, making me more adaptable, critical and self-reflective about my knowledge and skills.

Q: What organisation did you intern with? (Explain your roles and responsibilities)

For my internship I was placed at The Jakarta Post as a Lifestyle writer. I was fortunate enough to be able to conduct research, interview sources, rewrite articles from other news outlets and write my own articles.

Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?

The work culture of The Jakarta Post while professional was also more relaxed, deadlines were flexible and most of the employees were extremely friendly.

Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?

Definitely! Although, if I do return to work in Indonesia, I’d want to know more of the language so I can build more meaningful relationships with the Indonesians.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?

Throughout my spare time in Indonesia I really just enjoyed walking through Jakarta. As it’s so busy, there’s never a dull moment! I also spent a fair amount of spare time in some rather extravagant shopping malls, cute cafes, eating at warongs and losing my voice at karaoke bars.

Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?

Tidak apa apa (No worries/It’s ok

Q: Favourite place to eat? Favourite Indonesian food?

My favourite Indonesian food was hands down nasi goreng as I ate almost 10 kg worth over the six weeks. One notable place I ate- which I unfortunately didn’t discover until the last day – was Padang Sederhana. If I had known about it the restaurant sooner, I probably would’ve eaten most of lunches there as it was right next to my placement.

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Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?

Throughout the practicum we participated in field trips where we were fortunate enough to go to Metro TV and Kampung Akuarium. In my free time I visited Bogor, Museum Seni Rupa Dan Keramik, Taman Mini Indah (very touristy but a good way to get a taste of Indonesia if you’re short on time), Monas and Old Batavia.