Young Indonesian Scholar Embarks on Environmental Postgraduate Journey at ANU

Arifah Hidayati, a former Project Officer for a bilateral peatland restoration project in Sumatra, Indonesia, is now pursuing her Master of Forests (advanced) program at the Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University (ANU).

Before joining ANU, Arifah completed her undergraduate studies in Silviculture and Agroforestry at Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia. Following her graduation in December 2020, she worked as a Junior Sourcing Specialist for South Pole before securing a scholarship to pursue her postgraduate education.

In an interview, Arifah shared her reasons for choosing ANU and experiencing its rich academic environment. Her undergraduate lecturers, who were ANU graduates, greatly influenced her decision.

Throughout her journey at ANU, Arifah has been actively engaging in various professional development opportunities. She attended the Crawford Fund Conference as a scholar-sponsored delegate, where she gained insights into international agricultural research and development. Additionally, she participated in the mid-semester break's Indonesia Institute Postgraduate Workshop to share her thesis research with fellow students.

Arifah appreciates the support system offered by the campus for both academic and non-academic needs. She frequently attended webinars and booked appointments with learning advisors from ANU Library Skills to enhance her academic skills.

As a member of the Set4ANU program, Arifah formed close bonds with new students and met her mentor who guided them around campus. This group hosted regular coffee chats and board game nights, providing enjoyable experiences.

During her time at ANU, Arifah has attended several events and participated in field trips to explore Responsible Wood Production and Conservation practices in the ACT and NSW regions. She is also an active member of the International Forestry Students' Association (IFSA), where she revived the local committee at ANU by organizing various events.

Arifah received the ANU Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship, which fully supported her education. Upon completing her Master of Forests, Arifah plans to pursue a career focused on the intersection of natural resource management and community development in Indonesia or the Asia-Pacific region.