Demystifying the Experiences of Student Journalists in Managing Academic Pressures and Media Responsibilities

This study examined how elementary student journalists manage academic pressures alongside media responsibilities. It aimed to identify their challenges, coping strategies, and lessons learned. Using a phenomenological approach, 14 student journalists from a Kapalong elementary school were purposively selected. Participants faced challenges such as balancing dual roles, tight deadlines, academic stress, teacher conflicts, exhaustion, peer pressure, and self-doubt. To cope, they employed time management, sought support, maintained discipline and routines, practiced self-care, and developed adaptability and problem-solving skills. Thus, the findings underscore the need for supportive academic environments that acknowledge student journalists’ dual roles. To sum up, their experiences highlighted the importance of time management, teamwork, resilience, passion, and personal growth, with journalism serving as a tool for learning and self-improvement.