Bowles, KellyShannon, BrendanAlotaibi, Yousef Ayidh2024-09-102024-09-102024-07-22https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14154/73044Abstract Aim This study aims to understand the lived experiences of paramedics from the Middle East during their PhD studies in paramedicine, to provide insights that can help universities and policymakers offer better support, potentially improving retention rates and creating a more inclusive academic environment for all international students. Methods In this study, participants were enrolled through purposive sampling method. We conducted a qualitative reflexive thematic analysis, using an inductive coding technique at the semantic/explicit level. This approach allowed us to detect themes from the participants’ reports of the PhD life internationally including its challenges and facilitators. Results Data was collected from 9 participants studying or graduated from PhD in paramedicine. Four themes were produced: (1) Importance of collaboration, which emphasises how crucial teamwork and collaboration are for the success of PhD studies in paramedicine; (2) a balancing act, which captures the personal challenges and experiences of paramedicine PhD students, especially those who move to a new country for their studies; (3) having a reason, where the personal reasons behind pursuing a PhD in paramedicine are explored in depth; and (4) lack of paramedicine expertise, exploring the lack of expertise in paramedicine within academic and research settings perceived by participants as well as a lack of Paramedic specific research training programs. These themes reveal the importance of the lived experiences of Middle Eastern paramedics in their PhDs. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of exploring the PhD journey in paramedicine. These findings can inform institutions and supervisors can enhance the PhD journey for Middle Eastern paramedics by implementing targeted support and mentorship programs, expanding postgraduate programs in paramedicine, and ultimately enhancing the overall experience for international students. Keywords PhD, Paramedicine, qualitative, Middle Eastern, challenges, lived experiences Corresponding Author: Yousef Alotaibi, Department of Paramedicine, Monash University – Peninsula Campus, PO Box 527, McMahons Road, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia. Yousef.Alotaibi@Monash.edu35enPhDParamedicinequalitativeMiddle Easternchallengeslived experiencesPostgraduate Projects