From Resilience to Success: An Appreciative Inquiry into the Experiences of Criminologist Licensure Examination Passers

Academic achievements stand as pivotal milestones in professional development, reflecting the intricate connection between diligent study habits and academic success. This study delved into the success stories of Criminologist Licensure Examination Passers in Cagayan de Oro, Northern Mindanao, Philippines, aiming to uncover the multifaceted factors that influenced their triumphs and the challenges they encountered along the way. Employing a qualitative approach through Appreciative Inquiry, ten participants, strategically selected via purposive sampling, were subjected to in-depth interviews guided by a meticulously crafted interview schedule. The collected data were analyzed using the 4D Model: Discover, Dream, Design, and Destiny. Results revealed the following themes: The Role of Support, Resilience, and Determination in Achieving success; diverse career aspirations: academic, law enforcement, and community impact; holistic preparation for success: strategic study, self-care, and support; and personal and professional transformation through achieving the licensure. ultimately, the successful navigation of the licensure examination is a testament to the synergistic interplay of personal attributes, external resources, and strategic preparation. Based on these findings, it is recommended that aspiring criminologists prioritize the cultivation of robust support networks, personal resilience, and holistic preparation strategies to enhance their chances of success.