Hamish McNeice is a student from the The Australian National University. Hamish undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga with the assistance of a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant in 2020.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I decided to undertake ILSC because I thought it was important to learn the language locally rather then only practice/learn Indonesian in a classroom. I also was very eager to learn more about the culture and the local people.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, it greatly helped being able to pay for flights and afford living in Indonesia for 3 weeks.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
Doing lots of cultural activities and exploring around Salatiga and the surrounding region.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the Indonesian Language Short Course influence your future career or study?
It will help me in the future for becoming a diplomat in South East Asia. For studying it will mean I can go into level 6 back in Australia and complete my minor in Indonesian.
Q: How different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia?
I have learnt Indonesian in Australia and I have so far found that it is almost the same as we have not been learning slang or conversational language but more academic language, which we already know how to do in Australia.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
Yes, as a diplomat or for development studies.
Q: What did you enjoy most about the course?
Salatiga Meets the World.
Q: What did you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
Walk around the city and play cards in Cafes.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food?
Beef Rendang, Cafe Ole or Abbey’s House
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Saya tidak tahu or Menarik.