Impostor Syndrome in Academia

 

 Impostor Syndrome in Academia

    There I have spent five years in academia without doing a single written in-person assessment during either my undergraduate or postgraduate studies. In many cases—certainly not through any fault of my own, but rather due to the highly competitive environment—I have often felt like an impostor. Sometimes it’s just a microexpression, or the way someone asks a question, that can make me feel so overwhelmed that I’m unable to give a proper answer.

Fortunately, I’ve heard that written in-person assessments might return to the School. I believe this could help resolve these awkward situations. Honestly, I don’t think it’s anyone’s fault directly; it’s natural to feel suspicious or even slightly offended, especially when the assessment system doesn’t really allow you to demonstrate your abilities. Personally, I would be more than happy to participate in in-person assessments. In fact, I have always done everything within my power to show my academic progress—putting great effort into the presentations I’ve given, and also applying for extra-disciplinary opportunities like the undergraduate BPS conference and the postgraduate interdisciplinary event, both of which I took part in. I was also selected for another conference in Ireland, though unfortunately, I couldn’t attend.

I know my presentations weren’t perfect, but for me it is both essential and meaningful to show my academic development to an audience. I also understand that speaking confidently in front of others comes with practice—which is why I’ve been eager to seize every opportunity to develop these skills.

Speaking constructively, I truly believe the School of Psychology is on the right track if it brings back written in-person exams and assessments. This change could help reduce these awkward situations, which can unintentionally undermine trust between staff and students.

Toni Font, Aberdeen 04/07/2025