Academic life and struggles of student mothers

Abstract

Student mothers in higher education manage academic obligations alongside childcare, household work, and financial pressures. Despite growing interest in student-parent experiences, evidence from the Philippines, particularly from the Caraga Region where early childbearing remains a continuing concern, is still limited. This convergent mixed-methods study examined the academic conditions and adaptive responses of 22 student mothers enrolled in a state university in Caraga. Survey responses were summarized through descriptive statistics, while interview narratives were analyzed thematically. The findings show that the most persistent pressures involve academic workload, childcare constraints, and limited income. To remain enrolled, participants relied mainly on careful scheduling, support from family members, peer assistance, and deliberate budgeting. Even with these adaptive practices, the respondents described limited institutional support, particularly in relation to flexible academic arrangements, affordable childcare options, and focused financial assistance. The study highlights the need for Philippine state universities to adopt more responsive measures that can improve the retention, well-being, and academic progress of student mothers.