How to combat imposter syndrome as a first-generation student

How can I belong?

Defining imposter syndrome

Imposter syndrome is a pervasive feeling of not belonging or being worthy that is common among first-generation students. It's crucial to confront and remind yourself that you belong as much as anyone else. Here’s a guide to battle this unsettling sensation whenever it arises.

Tips to combat imposter syndrome

Connect with professors. Professors are more than instructors—they embody years of wisdom in their field. Don’t hesitate to attend office hours or seek one-on-one discussions outside the classroom setting. Building relationships with the right professors can lead to long-term mentoring that will guide you beyond your academic career.

Learn from peers. Engage with upperclassmen or graduate students in your field. Their experiences offer unique perspectives and advice that can help broaden your horizons and establish a valuable professional network. Use their knowledge to forge your own path.

Curate your circle. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and hold similar values. Your company influences your growth and making smart choices can lead to you becoming someone that others aspire to be. Recognize the value of collective advancement.

Set realistic goals. Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on setting realistic goals that challenge you without overwhelming you. Embrace these goals as legitimate challenges that boost your confidence in a healthier manner. Remember, doing your best is what truly matters; perfection isn’t the goal.

Find your first-generation family. Seek out your college’s first-generation student center or initiate gatherings yourself. Such communities often host events like resume workshops, outings, movie nights, and more activities for first-generation students to find and support each other’s journeys. If your college lacks such a resource, take the initiative to establish one; you might be the student to make the difference.

Utilize campus resources. Counselors are underused, unbiased guides that offer valuable assistance when you feel lost or overwhelmed. They’re equipped to address your concerns about applications, internships, course registration, and more, no matter how trivial they might seem.

Differentiate feelings from reality. Understand the difference between feeling like an imposter and facing genuine discrimination. Discrimination is unacceptable; report such behavior without hesitation. You will be doing others a favor.

Learn from failure. Failure is a part of growth. Instead of discarding setbacks, learn from them. Reflect on better study methods or seek advice from successful peers for your future endeavors. There is no shame in trying again.

Embrace your journey. You are not alone on this path. Embrace your unique journey, seek guidance from mentors and peers, and build a strong support system. Leverage your qualifications and take opportunities that will propel your academic journey forward. By acknowledging your place and accomplishments, you are already on the path to conquering imposter syndrome. You are more capable than you realize.

And remember, life is a performance. No one starts their journey with all the answers. The people you think have it all figured out likely grapple with the same uncertainties you do. Apply for roles, seize opportunities, and learn on the job–it’s how the best get ahead, and it’s how you will too!