LIVED EXPERIENCES OF STUDENT LEADERS IN BALANCING ACADEMIC AND LEADERSHIP ROLES: BASIS FOR CRAFTING INTERVENTION PROGRAM

Education

This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of student leaders in selected higher education institutions in Davao de Oro. It examined their challenges, coping mechanisms, insights, and suggestions while balancing academic and leadership roles. Six student leaders participated in in-depth interviews. Findings revealed that student leaders encountered challenges, such as academic overload, time constraints, emotional exhaustion, and limited institutional support. Despite these, student leaders adopted coping strategies such as time management, rest, delegation, and peer support. They also gained personal growth and resilience. In response to these findings, an intervention program, Project BALANCE (Building Academic Leadership and Navigating Challenges Effectively), was developed. It includes quarterly modules: lead shift, midcore, skill sync, and IMPACTech, addressing leadership development, emotional well-being, and academic integration. The study offers practical recommendations for student leaders, aspiring leaders, moderators, school administrators, and guidance counselors in enhancing leadership support systems in higher education.

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