Ebony Hunter is a New Colombo Plan mobility grant recipient from the University of Melbourne. Ebony completed the Agriculture Semester Program at Bogor Agricultural University in Semester 2, 2018.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Agriculture Semester Program?
I decided to undertake the ACICIS program because it was not only relevant to my degree back home, but also a great opportunity to travel! The opportunity to learn about the Indonesian culture and create international friendships was too good to pass up.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, I did receive a New Colombo Mobility grant. This allowed me so much more flexibility in Indonesia, as money was nowhere near as stressful as it would have been without the grant. My grant covered most of my tuition, plane flights and accommodation expenses, which was a huge help.
Q: What classes/units are you currently enrolled in?
I am currently enrolled in:
- Animal Breeding (PTP431) is about the genetics and selection process involved in production animal breeding
- Small Ruminant Production Technology (PTP322) is about goats, sheep and rabbits and how they are farmed in Indonesia. It involves some really eye opening hands on experience in the field.
- Basic Food Biochemistry (ITP240) looks at the biochemistry behind the production and post-harvest of fruits, vegetables and meat.
- International Business (AGB313) focuses on business between nations.
Q: Are you involved in any clubs/societies at the university?
I have recently been asked to join a basketball club at uni, which is really cool because I love basketball. It is giving me the opportunity to do something I love as well as make some new friends!
Q: How has your study in Indonesia influenced your understanding of Agriculture or Food Security in the region?
The units I am taking are really in-line with both Agriculture and food security, my studies in Indonesia have really broadened my knowledge and understanding – they have helped me to realise the various similarities and differences between Indonesia and Australia.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Bogor?
During my spare time in Bogor I like to head over to the local hotel, Duta Berlian, for a swim.
My friends and I also like to head over to Botani Square Mall, in Bogor city, to shop and eat a lot of delicious foods.
Transmart shopping centre is also really close by and they have $3 movie tickets and a roller coaster, which is awesome!
I also love trying to order food delivery on Gojek, which is a massive challenge as they speak no English and I speak no Indonesian!
Finding the best Mango juice is one of my favourite challenges!
Q: Are you undertaking an internship while in Indonesia?
Yes, I am currently interning with Non-Timber Forest Product Exchange Program (NTFP-EP). I have been working with the research team on their projects 2 days a week! It is heaps of fun and they feed me lunch too, which is pretty cool!
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food? Where is your favourite place to eat?
My favourite Indonesian foods are Gado-Gado and kwetiau.
I love the food at the canteen at uni – it’s only like $1, which is awesome!
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
“jam karet” – it means that time is elastic and it is pretty much an excuse to be late!
Q: What places in Indonesia have you visited during your semester so far?
So far I have visited Bandung, which is really nice with heaps of cafes and cool places to eat! I also spent a bit of time in Jakarta. We have explored all around Bogor! We have plans to visit Yogyakarta and maybe some of the other Indonesian islands too.