From Campus to the Field: Valarmathi Vishnu Explores R&D in Indonesia
Why did you pick Indonesia? How did you hear about it?
I didn’t initially intend to! I was already on exchange at the National University of Singapore, and a few months prior to leaving for exchange, I went to an information session for the program and was interested in the subject matter. I ended up reaching out to Sean toward the end of my time in Singapore and he gave me some options of opportunities I could join! It was the perfect opportunity to expand my research experience, while also staying and exploring the region.
What was the application process like? Any tips?
The application process for me was a bit different, as I had reached out to Sean directly; however, I suggest attending the information sessions and other Go Global information sessions! There are many drop-in application sessions with the Go Global office that are also helpful as well, and you can have the chance to speak to students who had previously participated.
How was the overall experience? What did you learn?
It was an amazing experience. The style of the program made it so there was a lot of flexibility to guide your own learning, and Sean and Chris were great resources. My group worked with IPB University to evaluate Kampus Desa, which is a community-based education program in Bogor that empowers villages through workshops on financial literacy, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. We conducted interviews across several villages, analyzed data, and produced a formal evaluation report! The experience taught me how to adapt to cultural norms, conduct field research respectfully, and value qualitative insights just as much as data. We were lucky to be staying in the dorms on campus with other students and visiting researchers from around the world. Beyond research, we had the chance to explore Bogor and other parts of Indonesia, as well as experience many happenings on their vibrant campus, including their homecoming. I also made some local friends and learned how to drive a motor bike!
Would you recommend this experience to others? What can they look forward to?
Yes, absolutely! This class was a highlight of my degree and really enriched my exchange experience as well. I got to stay in Asia for much longer than I anticipated and also learn impact evaluation skills that are handy in my current job. The program and overall experience gave me a better idea of what I wanted to do post grad and I still look very fondly on my months there. I loved it so much that after Indonesia, a few students and I joined Sean on another directed studies opportunity in the Philippines. Students can look forward to an immersive, hands-on experience where research meets community. It’s not a traditional UBC classroom, as you’ll live in Bogor, work alongside local students, and directly contribute to an ongoing development initiative. In sum, it was a great year with irreplaceable memories.
What was the impact on your academic and personal development?
This program completely reshaped how I see research and development. Academically, it deepened my understanding of impact evaluation, monitoring and learning systems, and community-based education. These are skills that now inform my work in policy research. Personally, it helped give me a better idea of my research interests and aspirations. I also made so many wonderful friendships and created irreplaceable memories during my time there!
Apply to this course (LFS 302B) by December 10, 2025 (11:59 pm PT).
Tagged with: 2025, Applied Biology, Faculty, International