Key points
Imposter syndrome can cause self-doubt despite your achievements. The key to overcoming it includes: recognising imposter syndrome as a series of negative thoughts, celebrating your successes, challenging any doubts, seeking support if you need it and focusing on your growth to build confidence.
Do you ever feel like you don’t belong in your degree, even though you’ve worked hard to get there? Or maybe you catch yourself thinking, “Everyone else is so much smarter than me. It’s only a matter of time before they realise I’m a fake.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This feeling is called imposter syndrome, and it’s surprisingly common, especially among high-achieving students.
What is imposter syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as competent as others think you are. Even when you succeed, you might attribute it to luck rather than your skills or effort. It can make you feel like you don’t deserve your accomplishments, which can lead lead to anxiety and self-doubt.
In a university setting, where competition can be intense, imposter syndrome can appear easily. You might feel it after struggling with a tough assignment, getting constructive feedback, seeing posts on Instagram or comparing yourself to someone who *seems* to doing well in their academic and personal lives.
Recognising imposter syndrome within yourself
One of the first steps to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognising it for what it is: a pattern of negative thoughts, not the truth. Some common feelings can include:
- Feeling like your successes are due to luck or external factors
- Believing you’re not as capable as your peers
- Avoiding challenges for fear of failure
- Over-preparing for tasks to compensate for a perceived sense of inadequacy
Five tips for combatting imposter syndrome at uni
- Acknowledge your achievements
Write down your accomplishments, big and small. Did you ace your exam? Finish a group project on time? Get through a stressful week? These wins are proof of your abilities. Reflecting on them can help shift your perspective. - Talk about it
Share your feelings with someone you trust—a friend, mentor or even a Student Wellbeing Advisor or Curtin Counsellor. You’ll likely find they’ve experienced similar doubts. Knowing you’re not alone can be comforting and validating. - Challenge your negative thoughts
When you catch yourself thinking, “I don’t deserve to be here,” ask yourself: What evidence supports this? Often, you’ll find there isn’t any. Replace these thoughts with more balanced ones, like, “I worked hard to earn my place here, and I’m learning every day.” - Focus on growth
Instead of aiming for perfection, embrace the idea that uni is a place for growth and learning. Mistakes don’t mean you’re a failure; they mean you’re trying. - Seek support if you need it
We offer heaps of resources at Curtin to help you deal with self-doubt and stress. Don’t hesitate to use them—they’re here to help you.
It’s all about building confidence over time
Overcoming imposter syndrome isn’t about suddenly feeling 100% confident in your abilities—it’s about learning to recognise and manage your self-doubt. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. You’ll find that even the people you admire most have moments of insecurity.
University is a time of immense growth, and feeling unsure at times is part of the journey. By acknowledging and addressing your imposter syndrome, you’ll not only build confidence but also begin to enjoy your university experience more fully. Remember: You belong here and you deserve your success!
