Impostor Syndrome: Law School Edition
@pacspacala (17)
July 27, 2021 11:53am CST
Earlier today, we had our law school pre-enrollment orientation via online conferencing, which allowed us to meet our fellow incoming students. We introduced ourselves, and I found out that we came from all different backgrounds – some are right off their undergraduate studies while some are working professionals, like me.
And to be honest, I felt insecure.
I come into law school self-aware and determined, with all the skills I gained in the real world to back me up. However, I am not sure why it felt different today. And it is weird since the classes haven't even started yet. My anxiety is swallowing me whole, and it keeps telling me that I am not up to par with these people. I keep asking myself if I belong here. I feel like a fraud.
To give you a little background about myself, I worked in customer service for eight years before applying for law school. I know this job taught me to talk and deal with people, focus on their concerns, and provide the most appropriate and efficient resolution -- which I think is a good skill for a lawyer. Meeting my classmates earlier shattered this illusion. Some of them are class valedictorians, while some are already working in high positions in the government. I know that I should not compare myself to them, but I can't help it.
I previously read an article on Impostor Syndrome -- or the belief that we are not as competent as others perceive us to be. Thinking about it, I might have one, but Impostor Syndrome or not, I need to overcome this before the class starts.
I need to believe in myself a little more.
1 person likes this
2 responses
@Nakitakona (56486)
• Philippines
28 Jul 21
Don't compare yourself to others. You're a law student, aren't you? Why do you take that course?
@aureategloom (9649)
• Bosnia And Herzegovina
27 Jul 21
i absolutely agree with the last thing you said in this discussion. you should be proud of yourself for still wanting to learn and study for the job you want to do. i'm sure you'll be good at it.
of course, you haven't been studying for some time and you forgot how it is to take a test or something, but you can do it. believe in yourself and good luck!