Traversing Parenthood and Academia: The Resiliency of Student Mothers in Philippine Higher Education

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of student-mothers at Cebu Technological University – Argao Campus during the academic year 2024-2025, focusing on their resilience in balancing academic pursuits with motherhood. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research began with a survey of 43 student-mothers to determine their demographic profiles (age, marital status, financial status, living arrangements) and assess their satisfaction across Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Findings reveal that student-mothers are predominantly in their early twenties, financially dependent, and often single or partnered, with most living with relatives. These conditions significantly influence their capacity to manage academic obligations while raising their children.  Following the quantitative phase, 15 participants were purposively selected for in-depth interviews to gain a richer understanding of their challenges and coping strategies. Thematic analysis of the interview data revealed key challenges such as role conflict, financial hardship, and emotional exhaustion. However, participants also demonstrated remarkable resilience, often attributed to strong familial and social support networks and intrinsic motivation stemming from their children and personal aspirations. The study's findings were synthesized into "Dasig sa Kagabhion," a creative novelette developed using the Cognitive Process Theory of Writing, designed to offer a compelling narrative representation of the student-mother experience in higher education.