DIFFICULTIES FACED BY THE SELECTED UNEMPLOYED COLLEGE GRADUATES IN GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE

Abstract

Unemployment among college graduates is a pressing global issue with significant implications for individuals, economies, and societies. Despite attaining higher education, many graduates experience difficulties in securing employment, resulting in underutilized skills and potential economic stagnation. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the factors contributing to the difficulties experienced by selected unemployed college graduates of General De Jesus College. This study employed a phenomenological research design to identify the factors affecting the difficulties encountered by unemployed college graduates. The research was conducted during the School Year 2023–2024 at General De Jesus College in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews supported by audio recordings. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. A total of ten (10) participants took part in the study. The findings revealed that most participants were female and aged between 20 and 30 years old. Participants reported experiencing financial difficulties, such as being unable to purchase basic needs and personal wants. Additionally, many expressed fear and hesitation in communicating with others due to their unemployed status. Overall, the study contributed to a deeper understanding of the barriers to employment faced by college graduates and provided insights into possible areas for intervention and support. The findings emphasized the need for targeted interventions to address the specific difficulties experienced by unemployed college graduates. These results have important implications for support services, policymakers, and educational institutions in developing programs that enhance employability and provide adequate psychosocial and career support.