Landas ng Kinabukasan: Lived Experiences of Female Graduating Students During Transition to Post-Graduate Life

The transition from college to post-graduation life is a critical developmental stage marked by uncertainty, identity formation, and increasing responsibilities. Despite existing studies, limited phenomenological studies have examined how Filipino students, particularly women, make meaning of this transition within a collectivist context. This study explored the lived experiences of female graduating students in Bacoor, Cavite, focusing on how they interpret and navigate pre-graduation uncertainties. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), data were collected from five purposively selected participants aged 21–25 through semi-structured interviews incorporating pakikipag-kwentuhan and pagtatanong-tanong. Analysis followed IPA procedures, including iterative coding and thematic development. Findings highlighted key experiences of transition-related anxiety, financial and familial pressures, and preparation for adult roles, alongside processes of personal growth and evolving definitions of success. These experiences were shaped by the interplay of emotional, cultural, and socioeconomic factors, with family expectations playing a central role. This study contributes to Filipino-centered phenomenological research by emphasizing culturally embedded meanings of transition and underscores the need for culturally responsive support for graduating students.