By Byanka Olivarez Gomez

It’s easy to feel like you don’t belong in college, and especially if you’re one of the few people with your background in your classes. The pressure of fitting in, dealing with differences in cultural expectations, and struggling with self-doubt can make you question if you truly deserve the opportunities presented to you. It is important to recognize that these feelings are normal. Here’s some ways on how to tackle imposter syndrome and remind yourself that you do belong no matter what background you come from:

• Acknowledge Your Achievements
  • Remind yourself that you earned your spot! You didn’t get accepted into college by luck or chance, you are in this spot because of your hard work. It is easy to brush off your achievements, but the truth is, you’re in college because you’ve put the effort in to be there. Celebrate your accomplishments– no matter how big or small you think they are. You deserve to be proud of yourself. 
• Find Mentors
  • Connect with students, professors, or alumni who have been through what you’re going through. They can offer valuable advice, guidance, insight, and encouragement. These relationships can build a sense of community and remind you that you are not alone. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own; finding people who have walked in your shoes can be empowering. 
• Build a Support System
  • Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. This could mean joining student groups or attending cultural events. Being part of a community that recognizes your identity can help fight off feelings of isolation. When you surround yourself with like-minded individuals, you will realize you have a group of people who are rooting for your success, which can make a world of difference in feeling confident and accepted in your academic journey.  
• Shift Your Mindset
  • A key aspect of tackling imposter syndrome is shifting your mindset from self-doubt to self-growth. Instead of thinking you don’t belong, see challenges as chances to grow. The goal is not to see perfection, it is to see progress. You are continuing to learn, and you are capable of facing each challenge and overcoming it.  
• Be Kind to Yourself
  • Imposter syndrome can make you overly critical of yourself, especially when things don’t go as planned. Don’t beat yourself up over a bad grade, a failed attempt, or a moment of self-doubt. Everyone has setbacks and makes mistakes–they’re just part of the learning process. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that progress takes time.