Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in College and Beyond

Have you ever walked into a new job or college and had this sudden rush of emotions such as fear, nervousness, or doubt, despite having adequate experiences and credentials that led you to this new journey? The feeling of “How am I here? I don’t deserve this” is known as Imposter Syndrome. Imposter Syndrome is the collective feeling of self-doubt in one’s ability regarding high-achieving scenarios.

According to the CBE Life Sciences Education, various studies were conducted showing a prevalence rate of imposter syndrome as high as 56%-82% in undergraduate and graduate students1. Furthermore, 76% of those experiencing imposter syndrome were first generation college students1.

For those experiencing Imposter Syndrome, there is the prominent idea of the imposter cycle. The imposter cycle is an essential pathognomonic characteristic of imposter syndrome2. It occurs when an individual faces an obstacle, assignment, or some other achievement-based task and begins with extreme overpreparation, or with initial procrastination followed by a last minute frenzy of preparation 2.

The first part of the cycle is perfectionism, where you want and need to be the best. This produces unrealistic or unattainable self-imposed standards and goals 3. The second part of the cycle is super heroism, which also relates to the idea of needing to be the best. It is often presented as the tendency to over-prepare for tasks that you are more than capable of completing 3. Next is the fear of failure stage, where fear manifests when you’re confronted with achievement-based tasks. Individuals may experience anxiety and fear being humiliated or ashamed if their level of failure increases 3. Then, it's the denial of ability stage, where you begin to disregard your intelligence, experiences, and credentials despite evidence showing that you are capable of completing the task. The final stage of the cycle is the fear of success, which is where you have difficulty recognizing success or the idea that succeeding may lead to higher expectations.

Remember, if you are reading this and connect to this topic, know that you are not alone. Many of us are experiencing imposter syndrome in college. Always acknowledge and celebrate your wins and capabilities. Reach out to someone you trust and share your feelings to help guide you. Practice self-care and promote your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep and utilizing relaxation techniques like meditation. As always, FAU has a surplus of resources, so if you need additional assistance you can always reach out to CAPS.


Work cited:
1 Imposter Syndrome: A universal struggle. NCI. (n.d.). https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2023/imposter-syndrome#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20a%20systematic%20review,medical%20students%2C%20and%20other%20professions .

2 Melody. (2023, March 13). Imposter Syndrome: Breaking the cycle of self-doubt. MelodyWilding. https://melodywilding.com/imposter-syndrome-breaking-the-cycle-of-self-doubt/#:~:text=Essentially%20any%20challenge%20%E2%80%93%20a%20new,or%20procrastination%20(avoiding%20it) .

3Imposter Syndrome: A universal struggle. NCI. (n.d.).
https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2023/imposter-syndrome#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20a%20systematic%20review,medical%20students%2C%20and%20other%20professions.