Personal, Social and Academic Challenges: Basis for Developing an Intervention Program

Schools ensure that students get maximum results as they are given access to education. This study explored the challenges encountered by163 first year college students of a state college in the Philippines for academic year 2019-2020, in order to formulate appropriate intervention program to address students’ needs that impede self-development and well-being. This descriptive qualitative study used phenomenological and content analysis models to describe the commonality of experience of student challenges. Analyzed data through thematic analysis captured the possible personal, social and academic challenges experienced by college students. The revealed challenges were: Financial Difficulties, to be the most prevalent, followed by excessive use of social media and online gaming, difficulty coping with course subjects, alcohol and drug use, communication problem, difficulty making friends, gender identity expression and bullying. Based on these findings, intervention programs were identified: Family-focused activities, Special Focused Group for Self- Expressions, Self-Help Behavior Modification Modules, Strengthening of Consultation Hours, and Support Group for Working Students to be able to facilitate maximum development of students towards their full potential. The findings would serve as guide for Educators and Guidance Counselors in the practice of their professions. Under the Sustainable Development Goals of the Country the recommendations would encourage student well-being as well as promote reduction of inequalities.

Keywords –separated parents, social media usage, online gaming, student challenges, intervention, routine interview