Gisborne’s Emma Bamford has received a government scholarship that will support her in studying and completing internships in Indonesia.
The New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program is a government initiative that aims to increase knowledge of several countries in Asia through supporting Australian undergraduates to complete study, language training and internships.
The scholarship program is for one year of international study, with a ‘mobility program’ for longer-term study, language study, internships, and research.
Ms Bamford, a health sciences and arts student, received a scholarship through the program and will travel to Indonesia at the end of July.
She said that she began learning Bahasa Indonesian in year seven at Gisborne Secondary College and is still learning the language as a major of her degree.
Ms Bamford said that she is excited to have an authentic language learning experience and be able to learn Indonesian from Indonesian people.
She will study at Universitas Gadjah Mada in Jakarta and hopes to volunteer at a community children’s health care centre.
“I’m looking to get that practical hands-on experience… I find that I love university, but it’s very much textbook focused,” Ms Bamford said.
She said that she encourages those considering studying abroad to investigate the options available, such as scholarships.
“There are so many opportunities available to students wishing to explore global experiences, it’s just finding the right fit for you.”
