Alandejani, Jehan, authorTimpson, William M., advisorJennings, Louise, committee memberQuick, Don, committee memberPuig, Maria Elena, committee member2007-01-032007-01-032013http://hdl.handle.net/10217/80133Studying in another country offers scholars exposure to new cultures and opportunities to learn ways to reform systems and increase knowledge in their countries. Upon returning home, repatriate scholars are expected to utilize what they have learned, which involves implementing or transferring their newly acquired knowledge to their employer institutions. However, repatriate scholars face colleagues who are resistant to change, and their home institutions lack the appropriate environment and tools to help them transfer their acquired knowledge successfully. This narrative study examined the stories and transformations of female assistant professors who travelled from Saudi Arabia to the United States or the United Kingdom to further their education. Two in-depth interviews were conducted with each of the six participants and one follow-up email was sent. Four of the participants worked at public universities and two worked at private universities in Saudi Arabia. The data were analyzed using both thematic analysis and constant data comparative analysis. The results showed that all the participants went through reverse culture shock. Parents expressed their sorrow and concern for their children as they struggled to adjust. These are the recommendations based on the study's participants. Patience is the key to overcoming challenges. It takes time and a positive attitude to reach goals and to get new ideas implemented. Do not attempt to implement change at a fast pace because the fast pace overwhelms the students and alienates peers. Participants of the study also had an easier adjustment to their home culture when they chose an environment that was similar to the environment abroad.born digitaldoctoral dissertationsengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.re-acculturationtransfer of knowledgereverse culture shockText