Photo: Me in Kebaya in front of Flinders University
Indira Lakshmi from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia undertaking an exchange at Flinders University during semester 1 2024.
My exchange semester at Flinders University is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will forever hold a space in my heart. From the very beginning, I’ve felt embraced by a diverse and welcoming community, along with the genuine hospitality I received from the International Student Service (ISS) and the company of new friends made adjusting to life in Adelaide much easier! Being part of the Flinders community has not only allowed me to pursue my academic passion in International Relations, but has also given me the opportunity to share my Indonesian heritage with others!
During my exchange, I feel very grateful to have joined the Flinders University’s Indonesian Student Association (PPIA Flinders). I had the chance to represent PPIA Flinders at an event hosted by the Communication Language and Culture Network (CLCN), and performed a traditional Balinese dance. I was surprised when they announced that I won the “Most Favorite Performance” which was such an honor for me to see how warmly the audience embraced the performance!
Aside from that, the good networking that Flinders University provided gave me the privilege to participate in the “Indonesia Goes to School” with the Balinese Society of South Australia, where I had the chance to teach a Balinese dance workshop to Cardijn College Galilee Campus students. This event was supported by the Indonesian Consulate General and also marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Australia and Indonesia. I was more than happy and proud to introduce my culture to Australian students!
One of the highlights of my exchange was performing at the prestigious “2024 Australian of the Year Luncheon” at the Adelaide Convention Centre. Along with my two friends from the Balinese Society of South Australia, we performed the “Kembang Girang” dance and received incredible feedback from the audience. This is something I could never have imagined if I hadn’t been an exchange student at Flinders University! I am more than grateful for the countless opportunities it provided me.
Now that my exchange semester has ended, I will always consider Adelaide as my second home. I hope this can motivate other fellow Indonesians to embark their journey abroad at Flinders University!
Photos: Performing a Balinese Dance + Dance Workshop at Indonesia goes to school
