2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 5
Available Online: 12 March 2026
Author/s:
Villafuerte, Rochele*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (Rochele.villafuerte@cbsua.edu.ph)
Gonzaga, Nilo
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (Nilo.gonzaga@cbsua.edu.ph)
Abstract:
This study explores the On-the-Job Training experiences of Bachelor of Science in Mathematics students at Central Bicol State University of Agriculture–Calabanga Campus. Employing a descriptive qualitative research design, the study seeks to understand the lived experiences of the students during their OJT placement. It focuses on how they perceive the development of their skills, the challenges they encountered, and the nature and influence of mentorship in their training sites. Data were gathered primarily through open-ended survey questions and narrative accounts. The responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that students commonly described improvements in communication skills, teamwork, adaptability, and self-confidence as significant outcomes of their OJT experiences. Participants also shared challenges such as communication barriers, time management difficulties, and adjustment to diverse and unfamiliar work environments. Mentorship emerged as a central theme, with students emphasizing the importance of guidance and support from supervisors in helping them navigate workplace expectations and overcome challenges. Although students expressed that OJT enhanced their problem-solving abilities and certain technical competencies, many noted a perceived gap between advanced mathematical concepts learned in the classroom and their practical application in the workplace. These reflections highlight the need for closer alignment between academic preparation and assigned tasks during OJT. Overall, this descriptive qualitative study underscores the value of OJT as a formative professional experience while pointing to areas for improvement, particularly in strengthening mentorship practices and ensuring that training assignments are meaningfully connected to students’ academic specialization in mathematics.
Keywords: career preparedness, mentorship, On-the-Job Training (OJT), lived experiences, BS Mathematics
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26103
Cite this article:
Villafuerte, R., & Gonzaga, N. (2026). Lived experiences of the on-the-job training towards career preparedness of Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(5), 147-152. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26103
* Corresponding Author