UNRAVELING E-SPORTS FEVER AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL INQUIRY

Abstract

ABSTRACT

E-sports has rapidly emerged as a global phenomenon, particularly among college students, who balance their passion for competitive gaming with academic and extracurricular commitments. This study employs a qualitative, phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of 9 freshmen from Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) across its ACCESS, Tacurong, and,   Isulan campuses during the academic year 2024-2025. Thematic analysis was utilized to interpret the data, revealing key factors that shape students' motivations, behaviors, and strategies in engaging with e-sports. Findings indicate that early exposure to gaming, social influences, and personal motivations play significant roles in sustaining students' participation in e-sports. While some students perceive gaming as a platform for skill development and career opportunities, others struggle with societal stigma and balancing academic responsibilities. The study highlights both the positive and negative impacts of e-sports, with benefits including improved time management, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork, but also challenges such as academic distractions, family tensions, and sleep deprivation. Students employ various strategies to balance e-sports and academics, including structured time management, setting study goals, prioritizing responsibilities, and adjusting daily schedules. Challenges such as limited resources, social stigma, and academic strain persist, yet e-sports also offer potential career pathways and networking opportunities. Based on these findings, recommendations include establishing e-sports development programs, implementing policy guidelines, organizing tournaments, integrating gamification in teaching, and conducting further research on the academic and psychological effects of e-sports to optimize its benefits while mitigating risks.