An Imposter In The #1 Online MBA Program?

I’m extremely proud to be part of the Kelley Direct MBA Program, just rated the 2023 #1 Online MBA Program by Poets&Quants. I often share the positives of my MBA journey, all which dominate my experience, yet there still lingers that corner of doubt. I question whether there was an error in admitting me, if I have any value to offer my more experienced peers, and when someone will notice that I might not belong here. With all these amazing opportunities and people, why am I feeling like such an imposter?

During one of my Peer Mentor Program meetings with my peer, Nick, we had a great conversation about imposter syndrome. I was grateful for his surprise in hearing I felt this way and the space he created for that open and vulnerable conversation. He reassured that I wasn’t the only one feeling this way and helped provide a better perspective to counter some of those fears. A piece of advice Nick offered was recognizing that years of experience doesn’t always reflect quality of experience, which I appreciated as someone with less tenure than most of my classmates.

To those who have felt similarly, you’re not alone! Britnai Nunley, Accelerate Leadership Coach, recently shared an article here (Don’t Let Imposter Syndrome Derail Your MBA Planning) with some fantastic tips on disarming those doubts. A recent KPMG study also found that 75% of executive women in corporate America have experienced imposter syndrome during their career, and 72% of executive women looked to mentors and advisors to overcome it. 

I love sharing my MBA experience as a hopefully helpful resource, and I’m grateful for how sharing has helped me too. As I’ve grown personally and professionally, I’ve recognized that imposter syndrome is an ongoing challenge for me. And with an incredibly supportive community and network, this is a challenge I’m winning more and more each day. I may not always feel as confident as I look, nor will I always look very confident, but I will always keep working towards my best self and who I want to be. 

Thank you for being on this journey with me and helping me do that!