Combating Imposter Syndrome

There's a reason why you're here, and it's because you're capable.

by FIONA HURLESS ★ OCTOBER 26, 2022

You may not know where you're going, but let's be honest: as humans, we always think about the future. Throughout high school, you work so hard to be an independent adult; then, you get there. So, what now? You have an idea of who you're supposed to be, but how do you define yourself when you don't feel you fit that mold?

The term "imposter syndrome" may come across as intimidating, but it's a feeling many college students know all too well. According to the American Psychology Association, Imposter Syndrome occurs among high achievers who are unable to internalize their hard work and accept their own success. In short: it's how you feel when the pressure to achieve makes you feel like you're not doing enough. People joke about "playing" their role in everyday life, but when you really feel like you're not up to par, it's not a fun feeling.

Maybe you used to be the smartest in the room or the best at that thing you've known your whole life, but how do you define yourself in a college filled with all kinds of people with all kinds of skills and passions? The truth is, you are meant to be here. And not because of the high school test scores that got you here. You're meant to be here—in your school, in your major, in your life—because you're DOING IT. You're getting up, going to class, getting the grades, and doing the damn thing. Your grades, involvement, and job do not define you, but there are a few ways you can cope when imposter syndrome strikes. 

#1 Limit Comparison

It's an unspoken reality that comparisons are inevitable in college. The people you compare yourself to are the same people comparing themselves to others (or even better yet, YOU). Just because people other than yourself are involved and successful doesn't mean your accomplishments are any less valid than theirs. As a wise Tiktok once said: "You wouldn't have the opportunity if you weren't ready." When you compare yourself to others, you begin focusing on modeling your life to a dream rather than applying that dream to your life. 

#2 Find out what you feel you're lacking

Do you ever feel you should have had more experience or involvement by now? Trying out that new club or organization related to your major can help with this. It’s never too late to start. Just remember, when it comes to being a professional—there's no rush. Staying on top of your game doesn't mean entirely stressing yourself out. You can still look for interviews and jobs without feeling like you need them for validity. 

#3 Go back to your roots

If you feel like your life is pushing you too much to be someone you're not, ground yourself back to what drove you here. Whether it is your major, job, or extracurriculars, something caused you to pursue those interests in the first place. Remember the interest and passion that brought you to where you are today, and try incorporating that into your life as a source of motivation. 

It's everyone's first time doing life. You may think someone has it all together, but the truth is, nobody feels completely satisfied. In moments when you feel like an outsider in your own life, remember the work you put in to be here. Not in the past or on your resume, but every day. Don't listen to that voice that says you don't belong here. You do.

Cover Photo Credit: Pinterest