“Imposters” of TJ: Combating Imposter Syndrome

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Sean Nguyen, Broadcast

Imposter syndrome is a collection of feelings of inadequacy, characterized by a lack of self-confidence, anxiety, distrust in one’s own capabilities, and irrational fears of the future. According to the International Journal of Behavioral Science, 70% of individuals will experience imposter syndrome throughout their lives. Given that a commonality at TJ is to not feel smart enough or good enough, imposter syndrome is a pervasive sentiment shared among students. Zac Baker, identifying as the Superman type, reveals how he has felt like a “fraud” at TJ and in extracurriculars. However, Baker articulates how he is reframing his thoughts to healthily respond to his struggle of needing to succeed in all parts of his life.