Imposter Syndrome Among College Students

Mary stares at the acceptance letter from her dream college. It is a moment of joy and excitement made possible by her determination and endless hard work. Unfortunately, it can quickly turn into a period of doubts and fears for her. Many students like Mary experience such feelings which is usually attributed to what is commonly known as imposter syndrome. 

Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon that is experienced by some – often students like Mary – who doubt their success. It leads us to an irrational feeling of being exposed as intellectual frauds by being undeserving of their achievements. Researchers estimate that about 70% of the general population have experienced imposter syndrome at least once in their lifetime [1]. 

The Negative Effects of Imposter Syndrome

Research has found a direct correlation between imposter syndrome and low self-esteem among students [2]. Self-esteem refers to a person’s opinion and feelings about themselves [2]. Research suggests that low self-esteem is tied to low academic achievement, whereas high self-esteem is associated with greater academic performance [3]. Simply stated, imposter syndrome decreases a student’s self-worth, which, in turn, negatively affects their academic performance. 

Additional investigation signifies a relation between imposter syndrome and declining mental health, specifically due to anxiety and depression [4]. Declining mental health has been proven to significantly affect academic performance. Students who reported higher levels of distress, have lower academic performance [5]. Alternatively, individuals who do not seemingly suffer from mental health issues report higher engagement and GPA (Grade Point Average) [5]. 

Many individuals who suffer from imposter syndrome tend to avoid more challenging opportunities due to the fear of failing [6]. Similarly, they are also easily overlooked for promotions, important projects, and are more likely to self-sabotage their successes out of this fear [6]. This is detrimental because college is an important period filled with opportunities and learning experiences. 

How Can Mary Overcome Imposter Syndrome? 

By recognizing and acknowledging how students like Mary feel, they can begin to overcome imposter syndrome. They need to be mindful that it is a common phenomenon shared by others and can seek support by talking to trusted friends. They can also reach out to trusted professors or mentors since they can offer valuable advice. 

Another technique students such as Mary have at their disposal is to compare their thoughts to real life evidence. By keeping a journal they can write down all of their accomplishments and successes in life. It is harder to overlook them when they are written down. They need to accept that everyone makes mistakes, including them and that mistakes are essential to learning and perfection is unrealistic. Thus, they must learn to forgive themselves.

Students like Mary, who are just starting college, need to understand that it is acceptable to be a beginner. Everyone was a beginner at some point in their careers. If they still feel anxious, they can practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to calm down and relieve stress.

References

1. Sakulku, Jaruwan, and James Alexander. “The Impostor Phenomenon .” International Journal of Behavioral Science 6 (2011): 75–97
2. Nanda, Agriima. “Towards Owning Accomplishments: The Relationship Between Self-Esteem, Locus of Control and Imposter Syndrome Among Undergraduate University Students.” The International Journal of Indian Psychology, October 23, 2021. https://doi.org/10.25215/0904.012. 
3. Arshad, Muhammad, Syed Imran, and Khalid Mahmood. “Self-Esteem & Academic Performance among University Students.” Journal of Education and Practice 6 (2015): 156–62. 
4. Wang, Kenneth T., Marina S. Sheveleva, and Tatiana M. Permyakova. “Imposter Syndrome among Russian Students: The Link between Perfectionism and Psychological Distress.” Personality and Individual Differences 143 (June 2019): 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2019.02.005.
5. Antaramian, Susan. “Assessing Psychological Symptoms and Well-Being.” Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment 33, no. 5 (November 21, 2014): 419–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734282914557727.
6. Heslop, Gabriela, Juliana Bonilla-Velez, Erynne A. Faucett, and Cristina Cabrera-Muffly. “Understanding and Overcoming the Psychological Barriers to Diversity: Imposter Syndrome and Stereotype Threat.” Current Otorhinolaryngology Reports 11, no. 2 (April 29, 2023): 63–70. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40136-023-00456-3.

About the Author

Ana Alcocer is a promising fourth-year college student at Case Western Reserve University, where she is studying psychology with minors in political science and chemistry. Her interests include creative writing, science, research, environmental sustainability, volunteering, and community service.