You Belong Here: Conquering Impostor Syndrome as an Adult Learner
How to reclaim your confidence and thrive in your academic journey.
Returning to college as an adult learner — whether to finally complete that degree, switch careers or pursue a passion — is a bold and admirable step. But it can also come with a unique set of challenges, especially the nagging feeling that you don’t quite belong. This is often called impostor syndrome, and it’s surprisingly common among driven and ambitious individuals.
The Adult Learner’s Impostor Struggle
Impostor syndrome isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Some might feel like “perfectionists,” constantly striving for unattainable standards. Others may identify as “experts,” feeling pressured to know everything. Impostor syndrome is the feeling that you’re a fraud, despite evidence of your success. As WebMD reports, “One study found that as many as 82% of all people have felt like a fraud at some point — even scientist Albert Einstein.”
For adult learners, especially those changing careers, this can manifest in ways that feel particularly acute. Imagine a seasoned business professional, now pursuing a nursing degree, questioning their ability to grasp complex medical concepts. Or a former educator, entering the cybersecurity field, feeling overwhelmed by the technical jargon. These feelings are valid, but they don’t have to define your experience.
Consider a student in a liberal arts program, transitioning from a career in the trades, who might feel intimidated by their younger, more traditionally academic peers. Or an individual in a pharmacy program, previously an artist, who feels that their prior experiences are less valuable than those of their peers who have been in the health care field longer.
These are just a few examples. The truth is, whether you’re pursuing a degree in education, physical therapy, computer science or any other field, impostor syndrome can creep in. Oftentimes, impostor syndrome is accompanied by social anxiety, which can make it harder to connect with classmates and professors.
Combating Impostor Syndrome: Practical Strategies
Here are some effective strategies to help you overcome those feelings of inadequacy:
1. Acknowledge and Name It: Recognizing impostor syndrome is the first step. As Psychology Today suggests, simply understanding what it is and that you’re not alone can be incredibly validating.
2. Challenge Your Inner Critic: That voice telling you you’re a fraud? Challenge it. Ask yourself: Is there evidence to support this belief? Often, the answer is no.
3. Focus on Your Strengths: Remember the skills and experiences you bring to the table. Be sure to focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Your unique background is an asset, not a liability.
4. Seek Out Mentorship: Connect with professors, advisors or professionals in your field. They can offer guidance and reassurance. At Regis University, our faculty are highly experienced and often willing to mentor students.
5. Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Did you ace a quiz? Finish a challenging assignment? Take a moment to appreciate your effort.
6. Reframe Failure as Learning: Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Learn from them and move on.
7. Connect with Peers: Build a support network with other adult learners. Sharing your experiences can help you realize you’re not alone.
8. Keep a Record of Achievements: Create a file, physical or digital, that holds all your good grades, positive feedback and completed projects. This will be a great tool to visually see all that you’ve accomplished.
It’s About the Journey, Not the Destination
Remember, your decision to return to education is a testament to your courage and determination. You bring a wealth of life experience and unique perspectives to the classroom, enriching the learning environment for everyone.
Regis University is committed to supporting your success. Take advantage of the resources available to you:
• Academic Advisors: They can provide guidance and support through your academic journey.
• Trusted Faculty Mentors: Regis professors are often practitioners in their fields and can provide real world insight.
• The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD): They can help you navigate career transitions and develop essential professional skills.
You are not an impostor. You are not a fraud. You are a capable, resilient and valuable member of your academic community. Embrace your journey, celebrate your wins and know that you belong here.