Single Mothers in Academia: An In-depth Look at the Challenges and Resilience of Student-Mothers

Abstract The purpose of this study is to unveil the lived experiences of student-single mothers living at Barangay Sto. Niño, Tanjay City school year 2024-2025. Phenomenology was employed in the study as a research design. With the use of purposive sampling, five participants were qualified to undergo the study. Methodically, a student interviewer was trained to interview for confirmability and bias-free purposes. Four sessions took place to achieve data saturation. Credibility-wise, the interviewer did member checking to make sure that the ideas and experiences shared by the participants during the sessions were exactly as it is transcribed and interpreted. The data gathering took place at the residential area of Barangay Sto Nino, Tanjay City since it was preferred by the participants. Moreover, consented audio recording was a big help for the researchers to transcribe the verbatim responses of the participants. Through thematic analysis, the study revealed four major themes namely, a) contemporary challenges, b) self-insecurity, c) resourcefulness and resiliency, and d) fulfillment over challenges. The finding suggests that schools and parents. And other stakeholders should continue to raise awareness about responsible parenthood. Keywords: Qualitative research; Phenomenology; Lived experiences of student-single mothers, Student mother’s resiliency