Bethany Shegog is a student from RMIT University. Bethany 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 2024. Bethany is studying Bachelor of International Studies (Development).
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ILSC?
I decided to undertake ILSC because I wanted to experience Indonesian culture on a deeper level to just a tourist. I had also heard that the course made the language super easy and fun to learn (and the rumours were true). Especially when you can immediately apply what you learnt in conversations outside of the classroom.
Q: Did you receive a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant? If yes, why do you think the NCP is an important initiative?
I received the NPC Mobility Grant, which was important to me because it enabled me to take the ILSC course. NPC is amazing and important because it allows students to have financial capacity to go to these amazing countries to learn and study. NPC grants are available for so many amazing programs and I’m so appreciative of its accessibility for students.
Q: What did you find to be the most rewarding part of this in-country experience?
The ILSC was rewarding because it gave me confidence and the ability to communicate and connect with locals in Indonesia. I got to make so many local Indonesian friends and friends within the program, whom made the experience unforgettable!
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
The program was so well thought out that I felt I was never too out of my depth. I felt so equipped to be able to apply what I learnt but personally it was challenging to build the initial confidence to practice speaking. But after a few weeks I felt way more confident to start conversations in Indonesian and ask questions.
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If yes, how different was the in-country ILSC to your previous experiences?
No I had no formal Indonesian classes prior to the program.
Q: Were you able to learn about the Indonesian culture from this in-country program? If yes, how was this achieved?
The program offered so many experiences to learn about the Indonesian culture! Through both cultural sharing activities, a mock-Indonesian bridal party, having a speaker to come and share about Indonesian culture, and doing excursions in the local area.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
I enjoyed everything! But I especially enjoyed being able to practice speaking. Especially on the excursion to the pasar, where we attempted to barter and buy food.
Q: How will your proficiency in Indonesian Language gained through the ILSC influence your future career or study?
The program inspired me to definitely grow my Indonesian language skills. But also it will help me in my career with opportunities to work in areas related to Indonesia and Australia.
Q: Would you recommend this program to your friends?
Yes! Yes! and Yes! I recommend for anyone regardless of your Indonesian language skills!
Q: Describe your experience of the in-country ILSC in three words!
Inspiring, Fun, Heartwarming
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
berselancar.