Date

5-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Human Development & Family Science

Major

Psychology & Human Development Family Science

Abstract

The focal topic of this capstone project is navigating imposter syndrome among first-generation college students. Imposter syndrome is an internal experience in which you believe you are less capable than others judge you to be. It is a mental state in which you doubt your own talents/abilities. In a community jeopardized by an influx of what is called imposter syndrome, there exist students who are high achieving yet fail to recognize their success as being earned or deserved. Imposter syndrome describes an individual who is high achieving yet fails to recognize their success as being earned, but instead attributes it to external factors such as networking, luck, timing, lowering standards, and their charm (Holden, et a.l, 2021). A focus on imposter syndrome for this demographic is crucial since many students will go to tremendous measures to conceal their imposter syndrome, which can hinder their future achievement. Imposter syndrome can inhibit achievement by causing individuals to go to great efforts to conceal it. This can lead to tiredness and a lack of clarity for academic or professional endeavors. Research has found first-generation college students are also more likely to experience imposter syndrome than other students, and since their families do not have a full understanding of the demands of higher education, they may not benefit from strong family emotional support (Holden, et al., 2021). In academia, students from underrepresented or minority groups are most susceptible to the effects of imposter syndrome, so more research and learning is needed because imposter syndrome can affect us at every level, from graduate school to the professional occupations. I will present an online one-hour workshop titled "All About Imposter Syndrome: First Generation Students", sponsored by TRIO student support services, in which I will address what impostor syndrome is, identify symptoms/indicators, and what imposter syndrome support resources are available. The ultimate purpose of addressing imposter syndrome tactics is to reduce student symptoms and thereby assist first-generation students in better understanding feelings such as perfectionism, stress, and self-doubt. Finally, understanding about and addressing support systems will assist students in seeking assistance both within and outside of the classroom. All first-generation college students from all socioeconomic backgrounds who are enrolled in the CSUMB college support program (TRIO, EOP, CAMP, etc.) are eligible to attend the workshop.

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