CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction
Choosing a college course is one of the primary concerns that students encounter
throughout their senior high school year. This is a crucial phase of their lives, as it may
have a significant impact on their future. Intensive planning and good decision-making
skills are essential in this particular situation. However, according to Ghulati (2022),
there are over 600 million high school students who are struggling to choose their college
courses. This kind of problem can create negative repercussions in their lives and might
lead to misperceived course decisions.
There are myriads of factors that affect senior high school students when choosing
a college course. Some of the factors are mainly personal interests, skills, passion,
parents’ choice, peer influence, and practicality (Antonio et al., 2023). Given the
complexity of choosing a course, it is further demonstrated in a study conducted by
Almario (2021) that factors affecting the decision of senior high school students in
choosing a college course is a significant problem that needs to be addressed.
The intricate process of college course selection carries significant implications
that reverberate through various facets of an individual's life and society. When
expectations are unmet due to misguided career choices, precious resources are wasted,
and an individual's energy is misdirected, leading to frustration and inefficiency. The
vocational choice problem is a universal challenge, but it particularly resonates with
students selecting their study programs. Many individuals, especially students, hold the
belief that choosing the wrong course of study is the primary obstacle preventing them
from realizing their desired future careers (Sharif et al., 2019). Addressing this challenge
was the core objective of a research endeavor aimed at comprehending the factors
influencing students' career decisions and assessing the alignment of their preferences
with the educational offerings of institutions. Elements such as social class, financial
means, affordability, and future employability prospects all intricately shape the careers
individuals opt for (Ahmed, Sharif, and Ahmad, 2017).
Education, being a limited resource with high-value opportunities, motivates
families to invest more time, energy, and often money in higher education to gain a social
edge. This inclination directs their investments towards elite institutions. However, it's
crucial to optimize the overall public benefit by ensuring that the disparities in value
among institutions and fields of study are kept in check, maintaining a high standard of
education in mass institutions, and striving for equal access and completion opportunities
while respecting individual freedoms. (Ahmad, et al., 2017). According to Castleman &
Goodman (2018), guidance counseling encourages students to choose more cost-effective
four-year colleges with better graduation rates than the alternatives they might have
considered. It also enhances their ability to continue their education through at least the
second year of college, indicating the potential to boost the graduation rates of students
facing disadvantages.
According to Helyer & Lee (2014), numerous recent graduates are facing
challenges in securing jobs that match their educational qualifications and breaking into
their desired industries. To tackle this issue, higher education institutions are reevaluating
their strategies for improving student employability and implementing various initiatives
to expand and fortify these efforts, with a growing emphasis on facilitating practical work
experience. A widely adopted approach to achieve this is through internships or
placements.
In this context, the economic impact is profound, leading to unemployment or
underemployment if skills do not meet market demands. Social mobility is hindered,
limiting opportunities for disadvantaged individuals, while the cultural and social fabric
faces erosion when fields like humanities and arts are undervalued. Thus, guiding
students toward well-informed educational decisions becomes essential, aligning personal
aspirations with broader economic, social, and cultural needs, ensuring a harmonious
balance between individual fulfillment and societal progress.
Choosing a college path can be an incredibly challenging decision for numerous
students in the Philippines. There are various factors that come into play when selecting a
college course that will lead to a successful career in the future (Sansawi et al, 2023). One
significant factor that influences course selection is peer influence. This is particularly
crucial during adolescence, when it is important for students to feel accepted within their
social group or society. According to Delosantos, R. et al. (2020), many senior high
school students find it difficult to choose a college course, especially during their senior
year. Teenagers may struggle with this decision due to the influence of peer or family
pressure at that age. The family also plays a significant role in determining the course of
action their children will pursue. As stated by Almeida-Pinho 2008; Sansawi et al. 2023,
the family can either support or impede professional decision-making. They have a strong
influence on their children's decisions during the college selection process. Additionally,
according to Cajes et al. (2020), Financial status can greatly impact students' choices
when it comes to selecting a program in college. The financial stability of senior high
school students plays a role in their decision-making process, as they need to be practical
in choosing their college courses, especially when they are not financially stable. This
financial instability can also affect their academic performance, as they worry about how
they will afford their basic needs, such as food, transportation, projects, and tuition fees.
As stated by the Commission on Higher Education as of October 2, 2023, the projected
attrition rate or the number of students who dropped out in universities and colleges in
the school year 2023–2024 is currently 35.15 percent, slightly lower than the 40.98
percent the previous year. As of today, one person said that the attrition rate is already
decreasing because we are now slowly recovering from the effects of the COVID-19
virus. To sum it up, there are several factors that influence senior high school students
when choosing their college courses. Firstly, peer influence plays a significant role as
students strive to be accepted within their social circles or society. Secondly, families
have a substantial impact on our decision-making process, as they provide support and
encouragement to pursue a college course that aligns with our desired career path. Lastly,
financial stability can often hinder the path we wish to take. Facing financial difficulties
can have various negative effects, particularly on our academic performance.
As a result, the researchers decided to conduct a study that focused on the factors
that affect Grade 12 students at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated in choosing their
college courses and how these factors create significant changes in the decisions of the
students. This study aims to determine the factors that contribute to senior high school
students’ decisions and discover actions that should be implemented in order for them to
be able to choose their college courses thoroughly.
The dilemma mentioned above can be seen in an actual situation. Many students
encounter those tremendous challenges. If this kind of problem will not be prioritized,
numerous difficulties involving students’ college lives, and future careers will arise.
Because of this existing condition, the researchers conducted a study on how to address
the problem of Grade 12 students at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to assess the factors that affect Grade 12 students at San Miguel
Academy Incorporated in choosing their college courses.

Specifically, the study sought the answer to the following questions:

1. Choosing college courses in terms of:
1.1 Age
1.2 Gender
1.3 Strand
1.4 Occupation of Parents
2. Factors that affect the choice of college courses of Grade 12 students at San Miguel
Academy.
2.1 Personal Choice
2.2 Parents' Choice
2.3 Financial Status
2.4 Peer Influence
2.5 Academic Ability
2.6 Job Opportunity
3. How do the factors influence Grede 12 students at San Miguel Academy Incorporated
in choosing their college courses?
4. What programs can be derived from the study that can help support students regarding
decision making for their college courses?

Significance of the Study

The following individual or groups who will be benefited in this study.

To Students. This study is significant for students as it can provide them with a
clearer understanding of the factors that influence their college course choices. It
empowers them to make more informed decisions about their education and future
careers. By identifying the factors affecting their choices, students can gain a deeper
insight into their own preferences, strengths, and career aspirations.

To Parents. For parents or guardians, the significance of this study lies in their
ability to better support their children in making important educational decisions. By
understanding the factors that influence their children's choices, guardians can provide
more tailored guidance, ensuring that their children's decisions align with their interests
and abilities. This can lead to more successful educational outcomes and a stronger
parent-child relationship.

To Peers. Peer influence plays a role in shaping students' choices. This study's
significance for peers lies in understanding how they impact each other's decisions and
the potential to foster a supportive and cooperative environment among friends. Peers can
gain insights into the factors affecting their friends' choices and provide positive
encouragement, which can lead to better decision-making and stronger friendships.

To Teachers. This study is significant for teachers, as it can help them better
understand the factors influencing their students' choices regarding college courses. With
this insight, teachers can offer more tailored guidance and support within the classroom,
aligning their teaching methods with students' preferences and career aspirations. This
can lead to improved engagement and academic performance among students.

To School Administrators. For school administrators, the study's significance

lies in its potential to enhance educational planning and resource allocation. By
identifying the factors affecting students' course choices, administrators can make
informed decisions about curriculum development and resource allocation to better meet
the needs and interests of the student body. This can lead to more effective and efficient
educational programs at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated.

Scope and Delimitations of the Study

The study focuses on a number of distinct issues, such as choosing college

courses in terms of age, gender, strand, and occupation of parents. Factors that affect the
choice of college courses of Grade 12 students at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated
such as personal choice, parents’ choice, financial status, peer influence, academic
ability, and job opportunity. How do the factors influence Grede 12 students at San
Miguel Academy Incorporated in choosing their college courses? What programs can be
derived from the study that can help support students regarding decision-making for their
college courses?
The goal of this study is to look for the factors that affect the choice of Grade 12
students at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated in choosing college courses. It also sought
to raise awareness regarding the challenges faced by Grade 12 students and identify
solutions regarding their college courses.
This study limits its coverage to the Grade 12 students of San Miguel Academy,
Incorporated to gather what factors have a high and low influence in choosing their
courses as well as what they consider in choosing their college path.
The primary focus of this study will be on the factors that contribute to Grade 12
students’ decisions in choosing their college courses at San Miguel Academy,
Incorporated in San Nicolas, Masantol, Pampanga, during the school year 2023-2024.
Any other personal issues of the respondents will not be focused on because they do not
directly contribute to the study. The researchers will collaborate with the administration
to conduct data gathering. The respondents are limited to Grade 12 STEM, Grade 12
HUMSS, Grade 12 GAS, Grade 12 ABM, and Grade 12 TVL. The researchers chose the
respondents that are most likely to choose their courses after they graduate.

.
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

To properly comprehend the concepts of the study, this chapter presents the
related literature, related studies, the conceptual framework, hypothesis, and the
definition of variables.

Related Literatures/Related Studies

1. Factors that affect the choice of college courses

Personal Choice

Students all over the world face the challenge of choosing a college course. While
for some students, it is pre-decided, for others, it can be a difficult task. This situation can
make students feel stressed and pressured about their future. According to a study
conducted by Balindong (2018), there are many factors that must go into the process of
deciding, and personal choice or interest is one of the most highlighted factors. Knowing
that this can potentially have a huge impact on the decisions of students, it is important to
identify how it can create significant changes in their lives.

According to a study conducted by Herpratiwi and Tohir (2022), personal interest

has a significant influence on learning motivation. The findings in this study show that if
the chosen course of a student comes from personal interest, there is a high possibility of
having motivation to be able to accomplish certain goals, develop an optimistic point of
view, become persistent, and excel in the chosen course.

Students should opt for a course in which they have an interest (Nyamwange,
2016). The findings in this study show that aligning of the college course with a person’s
interests is a must. Otherwise, individuals who have already entered courses that do not
align with their interest might suffer the consequences throughout their entire college life.
This shows that students should be encouraged to make college course decisions in areas
in which they have an interest in order to attain positive outcomes from their choices.

Additionally, letting students decide for their own courses gives them a sense of
control over their lives (Williamson, 2023). This will make them more responsible,
independent, and help them explore their interests in life. Furthermore, students who
follow their passion are more active in school and become inspired despite the
tremendous challenges they encounter. Therefore, it is indeed important to let students
think thoroughly about the course that they really want to pursue.

Personal choice is one of the factors affecting the choice of college courses of
students. The related literature mentioned above indicates the positive effect of personal
choice on deciding what course they will pursue in college. Although the findings
mentioned show several reasons why this factor has a significant effect on students’ lives,
it is still necessary to conduct further research due to the diversity that can be seen in
different schools.

Parents’ Choice

According to an article titled “Family Factors Influencing Career Choices”

(2020), when it comes to choosing a career, children are largely influenced by their
parents, whether intentionally or unintentionally, and this influence can have both
positive and negative effects on them. As they transition into adolescence and begin
thinking more seriously about their future, they often see their parents as role models or
seek their guidance as career advisors.

Based on the study conducted by Amadi and Ebipre (2020), the first factor that
influences students in choosing their college courses is the level of education of their
parents. The highest educational attainment of parents can serve as inspiration and
motivation for their children to achieve their own aspirations. The second factor is
parental occupation. Having knowledge about what one's parents do for a living can
encourage students to follow in their footsteps. Lastly, socio-economic status plays a role
in decision-making. The recommendation from this study is that learners should not
solely rely on these factors but consider them valuable inputs when choosing the field
they believe they belong to.

In a study conducted by Nui (2016), parents should have a deeper understanding

of the long-term influence of their parenting practices and strive to adopt behaviors that
consistently promote positive influences on their children's educational outcomes.
Learners require guidance and increased attention in order to be motivated and develop a
genuine interest in learning.

One of the obstacles that students face in choosing their college courses is
parental influence. Some parents lack knowledge of what their children want to be, and
this affects their decision-making for the future. In all these studies, learners need
freedom to grow and develop their capabilities in decision-making skills and self-
management. Prioritizing and letting learners choose what they aspire to be could give
them a happy and satisfied life.

Financial Status

Each student encounters a variety of challenges throughout their life. Among

these challenges, financial difficulties can be particularly stressful. Research has shown
that a student's economic status is a significant factor influencing their academic
performance (Cayetano et al., 2019). Financial problems can make it difficult for students
to pursue their education, and this study suggests that students from low-income families
may face the risk of missing classes. As a result, financial challenges consistently
influence the academic performance, health, and studies of each student.

According to Tortor et al., (2020), students, when assessing their financial

situation, take into account their financial capacity and use this information to select an
educational path that aligns with their financial means. The majority of students make
their strand or career choices based on their financial status, as they prioritize logical and
practical considerations, ensuring that they can financially support the requirements of
their chosen path.

Based on Shumba (2013), selecting a profession and the associated course of

study is likely one of the most significant choices students will encounter in their lives.
Many times, students possess remarkable abilities and talents in school but are unable to
follow their desired career due to financial constraints within their families.
Understanding the influence of family income on students' career aspirations will provide
valuable insights into their determination to pursue and excel in their chosen field of
study.

The central importance of finances in a student's academic journey and their

choices related to careers are highlighted. It brings into focus how financial challenges,
particularly for students from low-income backgrounds, shape and guide their
educational and professional paths. These insights are vital for understanding the
complex interplay between financial circumstances and the pursuit of educational and
career objectives.

Peer Influence

According to Hartney (2022), peer pressure is the phenomenon in which

individuals within a social group exert influence on one another, encouraging actions that
may be met with resistance or would not be chosen otherwise. Peers are individuals who
belong to the same social group. Based on the statement, peer pressure revolves around
the desire to be accepted and valued by friends, leading individuals to engage in certain
behaviors. Also, it encompasses the intricate process through which members of a social
group influence one another to undertake actions that they may initially resist or not
naturally opt for. Peers, who are individuals belonging to the same social circle, possess
the power to shape each other's choices, giving rise to the concept of "peer pressure."

Also, according to Lukman (2023), peer pressure has a significant impact on

career choices as it often presents one's preferred career as superior to their own choice.
Peers tend to impose their opinions and persuade individuals into agreeing with their
career path. Determining one's true aspirations in life can be a challenging or
straightforward task for different individuals. Teenagers, in particular, are highly
vulnerable to the negative consequences of peer influence when it comes to making
career decisions. The company they keep can either encourage them to pursue their
desired path or compel them to conform to their friends' choices.

In addition, based on Children's Health (2020), negative peer pressure can have a
significant impact on mental well-being. It can erode self-confidence, hinder academic
achievement, strain relationships with family and friends, and worsen feelings of
depression and anxiety. If left unaddressed, these harmful effects may drive teenagers
towards self-destructive behaviors like self-harm or suicidal thoughts. Based on the
statement, the influence of peers in choosing a course can negatively affect a student's
academic performance. This is primarily because students may struggle to fully engage in
activities or grasp lessons that do not align with their personal interests. As a result, they
may experience academic pressure, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, it can greatly
impact their decision-making process as they question their ability to pursue their desired
course without the support of their peers. They may perceive themselves as weak
compared to others who can be independent. This self-doubt leads them to overthink
whether they can successfully navigate the course they desire. Consequently, they feel
compelled to go along with their friends' choices, even if they do not align with their own
interests, ultimately sacrificing their own happiness.

Furthermore, according to Martin (2022), although peer pressure is often viewed

in a negative light, it is not always detrimental. In fact, when teenagers collaborate to
achieve common goals, such as excelling academically or contributing to their
community, peer pressure can lead to positive outcomes. Moreover, peer pressure and
influence can significantly impact students when it comes to selecting their college
courses. By receiving support from their friends, individuals are more likely to choose a
course that aligns with their true interests and aspirations. Additionally, having peers who
motivate and encourage diligent studying can lead to improved academic performance
and higher grades. Surrounding oneself with a positive circle of friends can also boost
self-confidence, enabling students to overcome any fears or doubts they may have about
successfully navigating their chosen course.

Peer influence/pressure is one of the factors that contribute to students when

choosing their college courses. The review of related literature mentioned above indicates
both the positive and negative effects of peer pressure on students. On the positive side,
students can receive support from their peers when making decisions about their college
courses. However, the negative effect is that students may be influenced to choose a
course solely because their friends are taking it, even if it is not their true preference, as
they may doubt their own capabilities in pursuing the course they truly desire.

Academic Ability

In a study conducted by Wiegele et al. (2017), grades aren’t as crucial to success

as once believed. The findings in his study shows that success is not just about
academics. There are other essential factors that contribute to the success of a person,
such as hard work, perseverance, and determination. However, there are a lot of
expectations for how a student should choose their college course based on their
academic ability during their senior high school life. The most common expectation that a
student should maintain is their high grade point average (GPA).
According to a study conducted by Borghans et al. (2016), success is predicted
more accurately by personality than by practically any other element. While grades can
be a good predictor of a student's dedication and self-control, they are insufficient to
assess emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, leadership potential, or comfort with
risk. It is a common misconception that getting good grades determines everything about
a student’s post-undergrad career.
In contrast, in a study conducted by Bae (2022), academic success and profession
choice are tightly intertwined, and good academic success opens up a variety of
employment options (such as law school and medical school). High academic achievers
frequently exhibit high levels of self-efficacy and engage in active job exploration.
According to Lukman (2021), numerous factors, including academic achievement, might
affect career choice. Every undergraduate student has a specific career in mind before
being accepted into a higher institution, and they believe that getting good grades will
help them get that dream job.
 According to the findings of the study conducted by Firmalino et al. (2022),
academic ability and academic performance are included as factors that greatly affect the
students’ decision to choose their college course. Additionally, according to Aboje
(2022), a student must check their academic strength, as it will help in reviewing their
interests and abilities. This indicates that students must consider their academic ability
when selecting a course to help boost their confidence to pursue their dreams. This will
give students an advantage and make their college life enjoyable.
The related literature mentioned above shows how academic ability affects senior
high school students when choosing their college courses. Although other researchers
believe that academic achievement is not the only key to achieving success in school and
in their future careers, it is still advisable, according to many studies, that having a good
grade would be easy access for students’ future careers, and that students should consider
their academic ability when selecting a course so that they will be able to attain benefits.

Job Opportunity

In the study of Reddy (2019), it is stated that the demand for people in a specific
job influences the choice of students in choosing their college courses. Many countries
have different job opportunities, and a job that may be in high demand in one country
may not have any value at all in another. Thus, a lot of people base their career decisions
on this aspect, depending on the job opportunities that their country can offer. The salary
that the career offers is also one of the factors that a student considers when choosing a
career path. Nowadays, living without money is impossible. It is quite difficult for people
to live a decent and pleasant life when their sources of income are unstable. Therefore,
one of the key factors influencing career choice is job availability and opportunities.

Some recent studies have stated that prestigious occupations, the availability of
jobs and well-paying employment have also been reported to motivate youth career
decision-making (Shoffner et al., 2015). Consequently, extrinsically motivated youth may
choose their career based on the fringe benefits associated with a particular profession,
such as financial remuneration, job security, job accessibility, and satisfaction (Bakar et
al., 2014). Opportunity is an important determinant since a career path is a long-term
process where students are assumed to get involved in a particular job by choosing the
most favorable career that has a stable demand in the market (Gwelo, 2019). On top of
that, Mncayi and Dunga (2016) stated that being exposed to the available opportunities
would give students a good chance of choosing the career that suits their aptitudes. The
opportunities may be in terms of academic qualifications, practical field attachment, and
job shadowing. Nevertheless, the utmost possible opportunity would be an employment
opportunity. Job accessibility was also considered a deciding factor for youth's career
decisions in a collectivist Burkina Faso society where nearness to employment locations
prevented students from choosing careers related to their preferred fields of endeavor
(Atitsogbe et al., 2018).

Making the appropriate choice when selecting a college course is crucial since a
student's career choice acts as their future plan. A student's career path will have an
impact on their life. Since not every profession option has a high likelihood of
employment or job opportunity, it is likely that students think about their employment
options before selecting a college course. As a result, this literature review is relevant to
our research as it provides insights and highlights the factors that influence career choice
among students. This study analyzes how and why job opportunities are seen to be one of
the elements influencing students' decisions regarding their future pathways.

2. How do the factors influence Grede 12 students at San Miguel Academy

Incorporated in choosing their college courses?

According to the research report of Sansawi et al. (2023), it highlights several

influential factors that shape students' course choices in the College of Education. Self-
determination, the ability to persevere, practice diligence, and maintain self-confidence
play a pivotal role in influencing these choices. Self-determination encourages students to
commit to their academic paths, even if their initial preferences differ. Overcoming the
fear of challenging subjects is vital, as it prevents academic disengagement, necessitating
the provision of support and resources for students. The qualities of perseverance,
diligence, and self-confidence enable students to navigate academic challenges and adapt
to setbacks, emphasizing the importance of fostering these traits in students. Ultimately,
these factors collectively impact course selection and reflect the need for a supportive
educational environment.

Also, according to Husaini and Shukor (2022), the research article delves into the
multifaceted factors that influence student retention and academic performance in higher
education, categorizing these influences into internal and external factors. Notable factors
discussed include low entry grades, where students with poor initial grades face a higher
risk of poor academic performance and dropping out, often influenced by their secondary
school scores. Additionally, program type plays a role, as challenging subjects within
chosen programs can lead to exam failures and unmet expectations, prompting some
students to leave their educational institutions. Family support emerges as a critical
element for students' successful transition into college life, affecting their emotional well-
being, self-esteem, and academic self-efficacy. Students receiving strong family support
tend to be more satisfied with their lives, experience better emotional well-being, and
perform well academically. These findings provide valuable insights for educational
institutions to implement effective strategies that support students and enhance their
academic experiences.

Furthermore, according to Global Indian International School (2022), the article

identifies ten key factors that can impact the academic performance of higher secondary
school students. These factors encompass various aspects of a student's learning
environment and personal life. They include an uncomfortable learning environment,
family conflicts, inadequate learning infrastructure, difficulties in understanding complex
subjects, teacher-student ratio imbalances, information overload, performance pressure,
unhealthy lifestyle choices, distractions, and a loss of interest in certain subjects.
Addressing these factors is essential to create a conducive learning atmosphere, ensure
students have the necessary support and resources, and maintain a balanced approach to
education. Schools should provide counseling and encourage open communication to
help students navigate these challenges and achieve their academic goals. Abu Dhabi
schools are recognized for their commitment to supporting students in these areas to
promote academic success and overall well-being.

Collectively, the three research articles highlight the multifaceted nature of factors
influencing students' academic journeys. They emphasize the critical role of both internal
and external influences. Factors such as the learning environment, family support,
teacher-student interactions, and balanced lifestyles are essential for academic success.
These findings underscore the importance of holistic support systems in education to
nurture student success from course selection in higher education to academic
performance in secondary schools. Educational institutions play a pivotal role in
addressing these factors and supporting students in their academic endeavors.
 Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework of this study contains the procedures used by the researchers
in gathering data, the processes that use these data, and the findings of the study, shown
in Figure 1.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. Choosing college courses  Review of Related “FACTORS

in terms of: Literature INFLUENCING THE
1.1 Age COLLEGE COURSE
 Survey
SELECTION OF
1.2 Gender  Data Analysis and GRADE 12 STUDENTS
1.3 Strand Interpretation AT SAN MIGUEL
ACADEMY,
1.4 Occupation of parents INCORPORATED”
2. Factors that affect the
choice of college courses of
Grade 12 students at San
Miguel Academy
2.1 Personal Choice
2.2 Parents' Choice
2.3 Financial Status
2.4 Peer Influence
2.5 Academic Ability
2.6 Job Opportunity
3. How do the factors
influence Grede 12 students
of San Miguel Academy
Incorporated in choosing
their college courses.
4. What programs can be
derived from the study that
can help support students
regarding decision making
for their college courses?
Figure 1. Schematic Diagram of the Model

The study’s conceptual framework, as shown in Figure 1, utilized an input,

process, and output model. The first frame displays the input of the study, which presents
the research questions and evaluation of the following: choosing college courses in terms
of age, gender, strand, and occupation of parents; factors that affect the choice of college
courses of Grade 12 students at San Miguel Academy such as personal choice, parents'
choice, financial status, peer influence, academic ability, and job opportunity; how do the
factors influence Grade 12 students of San Miguel Academy Incorporated in choosing
their college courses; and what programs can be derived from the study that can help
support students regarding decision-making for their college courses. The second frame
shows the process of getting information. The third frame, on the other hand, is the
output, which shows the research title and the significant relationship of the factors that
influence students in selecting a course.

Hypothesis

From the problem stated above, an alternative hypothesis was formulated:

There is a significant relationship between the personal choice and the selection of
college courses of Grade 12 students at San Miguel Academy, Incorporated.

Definition of Variables

This section aims to define and explain any technical terms or concepts that may
be unfamiliar or ambiguous to the reader. It also provides the necessary transparency
needed in the research. By providing clear definitions and transparency, the section helps
to ensure that readers have a better understanding of the research and can follow the
argument more easily.

Academic Ability. The intellectual standing of a student.

 Academic Journey. The path an individual has taken during their academic
career.

Academic Pressure. An experience in which a student is burdened by the

demands of time and energy to achieve specific academic goals.

Anxiety. Apprehensive uneasiness or nervousness, usually over an impending or

anticipated ill: a state of being anxious.

Aspiration. A strong desire to achieve something high or great.

Career. Profession for which one trains and which is undertaken as a permanent
calling.

Challenge. A new or difficult task that tests somebody’s ability and skill.

Decision-making. The act or process of deciding something especially with a

group of people.

Depression. An act of depressing or a state of being depressed.

Education. A process of teaching, training, and learning, especially in schools or

colleges, to improve knowledge and develop skills.

Employment. The extent or degree to which a labor force is employed.

Field. A particular subject or activity that somebody works in or is interested in.

Financial Status. One's personal monetary affairs.

Grade Point Average (GPA). The average obtained by dividing the total number
of grade points earned by the total number of credits attempted.

Guidance. Help or advice that is given to someone, especially by someone older

or with more experience.

Income. A gain or recurrent benefit usually measured in money that derives from
capital or labor.

Job Opportunity. Any established employment which is currently vacant and left
unfilled by a qualified worker.

Job. A regular remunerative position. Work for which a person receives regular
payment.

Occupation. The field or industry a person is a part of or the work a person is

interested in.

Parent's Choice. Giving parents the right to choose a course for their children.
 Peer Influence. The strong influence of a group, especially of friends, on
members of that group to behave as everyone else does.

Perseverance. Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties,

failure, or opposition: the action or condition or an instance of persevering.

Personal Choice. A person making decisions about all the details in his or her
life.

Practicality. The quality of being sensible and basing plans on what will surely
work.

Self-destructive. Acting or tending to harm or destroy oneself.

Self-determination. Free choice of one's own acts or states without external

compulsion.

Self-doubt. A lack of faith in oneself: a feeling of doubt or uncertainty about

one's abilities, actions, etc.

Self-management. Management by oneself of oneself or one's affairs.

Social class. A system for classifying groups of people within a society who
possess the same social and socioeconomic status.

Socio-economic. Relating to, or involving a combination of social and economic

factors.

Strand. An area of study under an academic track that senior high school students
must take to prepare for their chosen degree in college.

Undergraduate. A student at a college or university who has not received a first

and especially a bachelor's degree.