Challenges, Adaptability, and Resilience of Campus Journalists Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study investigates campus journalists’ challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and explores the adaptability and resiliency they demonstrated in the face of these obstacles. This study employs questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGD) to investigate the lived experiences of campus journalists at Mindoro State University. During the pandemic, campus journalists encountered various difficulties, as revealed by this study. The closure of campuses has disrupted journalists’ traditional reporting practices, limiting their access to sources and on-site reporting. In addition, the cancellation of campus events has deprived them of significant news content, presenting them with the challenge of effectively engaging their audience. The pandemic has further highlighted the impact of campus journalists’ mental health struggles. Due to juggling academic obligations, remote journalism, and personal well-being, the individual experienced stress and exhaustion. In addition, the constant flow of pandemic-related news overshadowed their ability to discern and communicate vital information effectively. Disparities have hampered student journalists’ transition to virtual journalism in technology access and digital literacy. Ethical quandaries complicated the situation. During the pandemic, campus journalists struggled to combat misinformation, maintain journalistic integrity, and protect source confidentiality. Despite the obstacles, the study demonstrates that campus journalists are resilient and adaptable. They embraced digital innovation by utilizing online platforms to broaden their audience reach and experimenting with innovative storytelling techniques. Collaborative journalism has flourished because of partnerships between campuses and increased community involvement, leading to a stronger sense of unity and shared goals among student journalists.

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