A Phenomenological Study on the Lived Entrepreneurial Experiences of BSHM Alumni in the Hospitality Industry

This study explored the lived entrepreneurial experiences of Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) alumni entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry. Specifically, it examined the lived situations they encountered, the challenges they experienced, the opportunities they utilized, and the responses they developed throughout their entrepreneurial journey. A qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of the participants’ personal experiences. The participants were three BSHM alumni from Palawan State University – Brooke’s Point Campus who owned and managed hospitality-related businesses. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework. The findings revealed that the lived entrepreneurial experiences of BSHM alumni entrepreneurs were reflected in three major themes: navigating business- and market-related difficulties, leveraging opportunities for business growth, and developing personal and strategic coping mechanisms. Participants encountered financial instability, customer-related challenges, and external and operational difficulties. Regarding opportunities utilized, the findings identified utilizing digital marketing and technology, expanding business through strategic decisions, and using customer feedback for business improvement as significant opportunities that supported business growth and sustainability. Furthermore, participants responded to their entrepreneurial situations by maintaining consistency and focus, learning and adapting through experience, and applying support systems and strategic management practices.