FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER: IMPACT OF WORK PREPARATION ON ACADEMIC TRANSITION OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION GRADUATES OF CVSU–TANZA CAMPUS

This study examined the influence of work preparation on the academic transition of Business Administration graduates of Cavite State University–Tanza Campus. Work preparation was assessed in terms of curriculum content, relevant learning experiences, and academic performance, while academic transition indicators included employment readiness, skill relevance, career satisfaction, and career progression. A descriptive research design was employed, with data collected through a structured survey questionnaire, and descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, percentages, and medians, were used to summarize the responses of the participants. Findings revealed that graduates generally reported their work preparation as adequate in providing theoretical knowledge, although some experienced challenges in applying concepts in workplace situations. Graduates who reported stronger work preparation tended to indicate smoother academic transitions and higher skill relevance, with variations observed across selected graduate profile variables, including age, sex, year of graduation, and occupation. The study concludes that well-aligned academic programs, incorporating both theoretical learning and relevant experiential components, support graduates in their transition from classroom to career, and strengthening practical training opportunities and career support programs is recommended to enhance employability and promote quality educational outcomes.