According to Merriam-Webster, imposter syndrome is "a psychological condition that is characterized by persistent doubt concerning one's abilities or accomplishments accompanied by the fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of one's ongoing success." Sound familiar? Is this something that you have experienced during your time at UChicago? 

If so, you're not alone! In fact, up to 82% of people face feelings of imposter phenomenon in their lifetime according to a 2020 study. According to the Cleveland Clinic, some potential warning signs of imposter syndrome include:
- Crediting luck or other reasons for any success
- Fear of being seen as a failure
- Feeling that overworking is the only way to meet expectations
- Feeling unworthy of attention or affection
- Downplaying accomplishments
- Holding back from reaching attainable goals

Imposter syndrome can show up in a lot of ways - in your work, school, at home, or in relationships. So, what are some ways that you can work to overcome the feelings of being an imposter? Here's a list of a few ways that you can start:
1. Separate your feelings from facts. Be mindful of the imposter feelings when they begin creeping in. Acknowledge them and be ready with a response - just because you think these things, it doesn't mean that they're true. 
2. Take note of your accomplishments. Hold onto the tangible reminders of your success. Whether it is a card expressing gratitude for going above and beyond, or positive feedback from a professor - hang onto that so you can go back and reference it during times of need. 
3. Stop comparing yourself to others. Measure your success objectively without comparing them against your peers. It may be hard, but always remember that what is shared is not always the absolute truth! 
4. Have an open conversation with people you trust. Identify people that you can have a real, candid conversation with. They can help you recognize that your imposter feelings are irrational. If you need additional support with this, contact Student Wellness to chat with a therapist by calling 773.834.9355. 

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Take 10 is an initiative intended to encourage all members of the UChicago community to rest and connect with others. Join us to participate in Take 10 events from 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM across campus on odd-week Thursdays this quarter! We hope you drop by and take 10! 

Restorative yoga classes at UChicago Student Wellness will help ease tension and melt your worries away. Using props like blocks, bolsters, and blankets, you will relax into postures that are held for several minutes at a time. We use mindful breathing and meditation techniques that are sure to leave you calmer and more grounded than when you walked in the door. Join us at the Student Wellness Center on Tuesdays from 4-5 PM. 

20 Minute Still sessions allow you to take a moment to pause and join the Office of Spiritual Life for twenty minutes of facilitated meditation to still the mind. Twenty Minutes Still takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00-8:20am in Bond Chapel.

Yoga Classes from Spiritual Life are offered in both a virtual and in-person modalities on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during Winter Quarter. Check out the most updated yoga offerings here. 

Wellness Coaching allows students to examine their strengths with a wellness coach to navigate transitions and achieve desired changes they’d like to make in their lives. Interested students may schedule a 90-minute session with a Student Wellness coach or a 30-minute session with a TimelyCare wellness coach. Visit this page for more information.

Let's Talk provides easy access to free, informal, and confidential consultations with therapists from UChicago Student Wellness. No appointment is necessary. In-person sessions are held throughout Autumn Quarter on Mondays and Fridays. Let's Talk has more information.

Buddy Up offers graduate and professional students the opportunity to join a network of peers wanting to meet with students across campus. Students are paired up with a new buddy every two weeks. Students may register here or email Carolyn Banner at cbanner@uchicago.edu with questions.

Food Security Resources provide short-term support for students experiencing difficulties with food access. Please reach out if you or someone you know is worried about running out of food, skipping meals, etc. Graduate and Professional Students can contact Student Support Service studentsupport@uchicago.edu, and Undergraduate Students can contact the Center for College Student Success ccss@uchicago.edu. You can also apply for grocery vouchers here.

FitChicago offers an array of fitness opportunities for you seven days a week. Everything from foam roller classes to Zumba! Check out the Winter Quarter class offerings and schedule here.