Imposter Syndrome: It's Not You, it's the System

Have you ever walked into a room, whether it’s a classroom, a meeting, or a networking event, and immediately felt out of place? Like you don’t belong? That feeling has a name, Imposter Syndrome.

But here’s what no one tells you, it’s not your fault.

Many of us, especially people of color, first-generation students, women in male-dominated industries, and individuals from historically excluded backgrounds, experience imposter syndrome because the institutions we enter were never built with us in mind.

Even today, systemic barriers persist in ways that make some of us feel like outsiders. And yet, we show up anyway, breaking ceilings, reshaping industries, and creating spaces that future generations will walk into without questioning if they belong.

As Dr. U and Professor G emphasize, you are not alone in this journey. Find your network, claim your space, and remember, you belong here.