Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - Utah's MBA Programs

OVERCOMING IMPOSTER SYNDROME

UTAH’S MBA PROGRAMS

WHAT IS IMPOSTER SYNDROME?

Imposter syndrome occurs when you doubt your abilities or achievements. This self-doubt can persist despite education, experience, or accomplishments, leaving you feeling you are undeserving of your own success. You may feel you lack the skills or competency required for a certain career, position, or opportunity. In a social context, imposter syndrome may cause someone to feel like a fraud. Social status, work background, level of expertise, and skillset do not matter; imposter syndrome can affect anyone! However, it does seem to affect high-achieving people, specifically those who are women, disproportionately.

OF PEOPLE FACE FEELINGS OF IMPOSTER SYNDROME* 82%

HERE ARE SOME COMMON CHARACTERISTICS:

• Extreme lack of self-confidence

• Constant comparison to those around you

• Distrust in one’s capabilities

• Negative self-talk

• Attributing your success to external factors

• Berating your performance

• Fears that you won’t live up to your expectations

*Statistic obtained from the American Psychological Association

EARNING YOUR MBA DEGREE

We understand that applying to a top-rated MBA program is no easy task. It’s completely normal to experience feelings of self-doubt during the process, but keep in mind that this experience isn’t unique to just you. There isn’t a singular known cause of imposter syndrome, and the ramifications can range from low self-esteem to decreased work performance. Therefore, it’s important to understand how imposter syndrome may personally be affecting you so that you can reach your full potential. In particular, the competitive environment of MBA programs can create feelings of stress and insecurity. However, at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business, we are ready to work with you every step of the way to ensure you can put your best foot forward. Here are common MBA myths designed to alleviate some fears you may be experiencing.

THESE ARE MBA MISCONCEPTIONS:

• You must be a 4.0 undergraduate degree student

• You need to have a background in business

• Male students dominate MBA programs

• Your application needs to be perfect

• Test scores are the most important factor

• Admissions teams look for reasons to deny you

• An MBA is only for CEOs and top management

• You must have a specific career goal in mind

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

The negative feelings associated with imposter syndrome should not stop you from reaching your goals. While it may be difficult to overcome these feelings, you can take steps to alleviate their impact. Your skills and achievements should be celebrated; you earned them! You are unique, knowledgeable, and more capable than you think. So, next time you experience self-doubt or fears about your competence, remember these tips to help yourself get back on track.

HOW TO OVERCOME IMPOSTER SYNDROME:

1. Learn the facts

2. Share your feelings with others

3. Find ways to celebrate your successes

4. Stop comparing yourself

5. Unsubscribe from perfectionism

6. Be kind to yourself

ASSUMPTIONS VS. REALITY

What I Know What I Think Others Know

Still unsure? Our admissions advisors can answer your questions and offer helpful tips for getting started. Schedule a call or video chat at a time that works for you:

What I Know What Others Know

WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK

At the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business, we want to make your MBA experience as comfortable as possible. We offer four different formats to best accommodate your needs. By finding the MBA that suits you best, you can limit extra stressors and focus on reaching your full potential. An MBA designed to fit your lifestyle means you can take the time to understand your capabilities at your own pace. Here are your options:

Full-Time MBA (Traditional): For those interested in a truly immersive and transformational experience. Students meet during the day with their cohort and learn from the world’s best professors in business. Our students see an average 102% salary increase by graduation.

Professional MBA (Hybrid: Evening/Online): For early-to-middle career professionals seeking career advancement or beginning a new career track. Classes are two evenings per week (one in person and one online). 56% of our students see a promotion by graduation.

MBA Online (Virtual): For professionals seeking a flexible online solution to achieve career advancement or change professional industries. Classes are online with optional live webinar sessions. Our students see an average 36% salary increase by graduation.

Executive MBA (Weekend): For experienced, senior-level professionals seeking executive-level strategy and leadership skills. Classes are held on campus every other weekend. Our students see an average 28% salary increase within three years after graduation.

So, are you ready to see what you’re capable of? Our admissions team is waiting to help you overcome your fears and take your next big step. You have so much potential; don’t let the negative self-talk get in your way! Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about what our programs can do for you and your career.