• Mariel T. Abuela
• Jobellyn May A. Bontifola
• Rolando M. Urlanda
• Febbie Faith Ramos

ABSTRACT This study utilizes narratological qualitative research that explores the lived experiences of individuals who have encountered academic failures and challenges while striving for success in their careers. Moreover, this aims to deepen the understanding that academic persistence is an inclusive and universal experience that transcends personal backgrounds and circumstances. Consequently, the informants of the study were the ten tertiary diploma holders from various institutions in the Philippines. Wherein, the study employed in-depth interview (IDI) to gather rich personal narratives. Thematic analysis, structured around the four themes or acronym GRIT - Grind challenges faced and responses of the informants, Remembering sources of help and guidance during academic struggles, Insights and turning points through academic persistence, and transformative lessons after achieving goals through persistence - revealed persistent financial struggles, cognitive difficulties, behavioral challenges, and role strain as dominant obstacles. Furthermore, sources of motivation such as family, peers, institutional support, and personal resilience emerged as crucial enablers. Also, informants recounted turning points that shaped their personal growth, willpower, character development, and social responsibility. The study concludes that academic persistence is fostered through a combination of intrinsic grit, an external support system, and the capacity to transform adversity into opportunity. These findings will significantly help the educators, policymakers, and academic institutions to enhance students’ retention and success in the face of adversity.

academic persistence, qualitative research design, narratology, grit, Philippines

"CHALLENGES AS CAREER STEPPING STONES: A NARRATOLOGY ON ACADEMIC PERSISTENCE", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no.c288-c299, May-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505236.pdf

"CHALLENGES AS CAREER STEPPING STONES: A NARRATOLOGY ON ACADEMIC PERSISTENCE", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no. ppc288-c299, May-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505236.pdf