Zoe Abbott was a participant of the Agriculture Professional Practicum, in 2020. Zoe is a Bachelor of Environmental Science student from the Charles Darwin University. Zoe received a $3,000 New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to support her participation in this program.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Agriculture Professional Practicum?
To gain knowledge of sustainable agriculture and environmental issues in Indonesia and also gain experience in a cross cultural workplace. I also wanted to meet new people and experience a different culture.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If so, how did this contribute to your experience in Indonesia?
Yes, it saved me money which I saved for the trip to Indonesia. It helped me financially in the beginning.
Q: How will the Agriculture Professional Practicum benefit or influence your future career?
I believe attending the Professional Practicum improved my confidence and people skills which will be important for my career as environmental consultant.
Q: Which organisation did you intern with? What were your roles and responsibilities?
INOBU – Researching and presenting findings on ecosystem restoration.
Q: How have you found the work culture of your host organisation? How is it different to work experience in Australia?
I have found the work culture pleasant. They are friendly and hard-working. Having a language barrier is the main difference to working in Australia.
Q: Would you like to return to work in Indonesia again in future?
Yes.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Indonesia?
Eat. Drink. Explore
Q: Favourite place to eat and favourite Indonesian food?
We had a lunch cooked for us when visiting a village in Central Kalimantan and it was the best food I have ever tasted. My favourite dish was Gado Gado.
Q: Favourite Indonesian word/phrase?
Bagus.
Q. What places in Indonesia have you visited during your practicum so far?
Pelabuhan Ratu, Central Kalimantan, Jakarta