According to a study by Merrimack Valley Psychological Studies from 2024, 82% of college students have experienced imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is a frequent yet commonly overlooked struggle among college students. A study by Stanford University (Imposter Syndrome | Center for Teaching and Learning) points out that the syndrome known as the “Imposter Phenomenon,” (imposter syndrome), which dates back to a study from 1978, is rooted in self-doubt and constant comparison.
This research, which was first finalized by the philosophers Pauline Rode Clance and Suzanne Imes, summarized that these feelings and symptoms of doubt come from sudden changes or challenges in one’s life. Whether it be advanced studies or starting from square one, when things do not go according to “plan”, the syndrome kicks in.
So why is it so common amongst college students in particular? One main reason stems from the format that colleges/universities have, which is the common four year credited terms. This can lead to feelings of being lost if a student has a shortened or extended version of this standard.
It can also come in forms of racial and sexual discrimination, age and environment biases that can make the journey all the more difficult.
The Torch spoke to two St. John’s University students to get an authentic look at why imposter syndrome can be common among college students throughout their academics to show that you are never alone in this path designed for you.
“I can’t stress this enough: limiting your screen time is vital to avoiding a cycle of self-doubt… this helps me stay grounded and not let the algorithm take control of me and fuel my anxiety about my career,” explained sports management student Bill McVey.
McVey has just returned back to St. John’s University this semester for his junior year after taking a medical leave of absence from his studies back in the fall semester of 2024.
He also delved into how he stays balanced during times of relapsing into uncertainty and stress.
“As a Christian, I always go to God to ease my anxieties. Many people don’t think of it as a form of meditation, but prayer most certainly is.”
Catching and acknowledging these feelings early on is vital for knowing how to navigate your emotions.
Communication Arts major, Mary Herbert, shares her story on finding her purpose through her classes at the University as she faced setbacks regarding her studies her sophomore year. “Take full advantage of your campus resources, know you have time.”
She also emphasizes frequently meeting with your academic advisor for any and all questions regarding your studies.
“Comparison is honestly the thief of joy, also putting too much pressure on yourself and worrying too much about having the perfect GPA can be such a setback. Learning how to overcome those obstacles is the best thing you can do for yourself.”
Feeling like a fraud and de-valuing all your achievements can really hurt your motivation and cloud your mind with pushbacks.
To end with some insight from a professional, Assistant Vice President for Equity and Inclusion/ Student Belonging at St. Johns University, Sharod L. Tomlinson/’21 Ed.D encourages students in a recent University article about conquering those feelings of not belonging or fitting in.
“Doubt is not proof that you do not belong. It is often proof that you are doing something courageous.”
He then adds that everyone matters, and everyone’s unique story and perspective is what makes colleges and universities the higher education they are.
Know that you are never alone, and that each path is different, but never of less value.