Undergraduate Thesis
Bachelor of Science in Office Administration
University of Rizal System, Rodriguez, Rizal
2024

This study explores the work experiences of graduates who entered the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing a phenomenological transcendental approach to capture the essence of their lived experiences. By focusing on pandemic graduates, the research aims to unveil the unique challenges and adaptations these individuals encountered as they navigated an unprecedented job market. Participants were selected based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, prioritizing those who graduated amidst the pandemic, regardless of age, academic discipline, or employment type, ensuring a focused examination of this specific demographic. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, which were subsequently transcribed and analyzed thematically to derive meaningful insights. To enhance the credibility of the findings, member checking was employed, allowing participants to validate the accuracy of their expressed experiences. The analysis revealed that pandemic graduates faced significant shifts in their career development and expectations, primarily due to the instability of the job market, economic uncertainty, and health concerns. Job search difficulties were exacerbated by the abrupt onset of the pandemic, resulting in restrictions and a downturn in available employment opportunities. Graduates reported specific challenges such as job mismatches, with many experiencing disconnections between their degree and available positions; financial instability, and a reliance on entry-level roles in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector as a primary avenue for employment.

Despite these adversities, participants exhibited remarkable resilience and adaptability. They actively enhanced their skill sets, utilized online platforms for job

searches, and prioritized their mental and emotional well-being to cope with th uncertainties of the post-pandemic labor market.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly exacerbated challenges for new graduates, creating a gap between educational preparation and career opportunities, which in turn affected job satisfaction and progression. The adaptation to remote work and virtual interviews necessitated proficiency with digital tools and innovative communication strategies. Insights from this study serve as a foundation for recommendations for academic institutions to improve career services, training programs, and mental health support; guidance for employers to enhance job satisfaction and employee well-being; and strategies for job seekers to cultivate resilience and adaptability in their career pursuits. Future researchers can build on these findings to further examine themes related to crisis management and the impact of remote work on employee dynamics.