BLAZE A NEW TRAIL: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS IN MEETING COLLEGE RETENTION POLICIES

ACADEMIC, EDUCATION

This qualitative phenomenological research explores the lived experiences of former senior high school achievers who failed to meet the college retention policy at Davao de Oro State College – Maragusan Branch. The study specifically involved eight participants who were honor students in senior high school but encountered academic failure during their early college years, resulting in their inability to meet the institution’s retention criteria. Through purposive sampling, in-depth interviews were conducted to gather rich, personal narratives. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, revealing key emotional responses such as disappointment, self-doubt, and pressure, alongside valuable realizations like the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and redefining academic success. Participants also offered personal advice focused on resilience, self-belief, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. The findings show that academic excellence in high school does not guarantee the same outcomes in college and that failure, though painful, can lead to growth and self-awareness. Practical implications suggest that institutions should strengthen academic and emotional support systems, including counseling, mentorship programs, resilience-building workshops, and open dialogue on failure to better support students facing transitions and setbacks. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on student retention, mental health, and the evolving understanding of academic achievement in higher education.

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