Analyzing the lived experiences of doctoral students' study opportunities abroad

Study opportunities or sabbaticals are still treasures for study and academic reflection. Research at Shiraz University has not concentrated on examining the flow and experiences of study opportunities related to doctoral students, one of the most influential people in producing knowledge. The purpose of this study was to analyze the lived experiences of doctoral students in Shiraz University about study opportunities.

Methodolog The potential participants of the research were doctoral students in the fields of basic sciences, technical-engineering, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and human sciences who had completed their study opportunities in one of the prestigious universities abroad in the last 3 years. 23 PhD students were selected as participants by using the targeted sampling approach and the criteria sampling method and the maximum variety of disciplines. The data collection method was a semi-structured interview. After coding the data and by content analysis, the categories were extracted.

The findings of the study were rearranged in five organizing themes, a time for dialogue between cultures, a time for socialization, a time for acquaintance, interaction and understanding of the academic structure, an opportunity for self-knowledge and professional development, a time for separation and taking a step in a new research path.

Based on the findings of the current study, students have been able to gain knowledge of the larger world, flourish in talents, become familiar with a variety of ideas and cultures, become independent and more assertive, gain a new perspective and a new worldview, as well as develop their self-confidence through studying abroad.