The Imposter Syndrome

“How to Feel as Smart and Capable as Everyone Seems to Think You Are,” a presentation by Dr. Valerie Young. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, a surprising number of bright, capable, and often highly successful people dismiss their achievements as due to luck, charm, or other external factors. Individuals suffering from the Imposter Syndrome tend to believe they have somehow managed to “fool” others into thinking they are more intelligent and competent than they believe themselves to be. As a result, people experiencing this syndrome live in fear of being “found out.” When Valerie Young last spoke at Harvard in 2005, over 250 students attended, and it was an extremely powerful presentation. Join us for this engaging exploration of the Imposter Syndrome and learn some strategies to overcome it! No reservations are required. Co-sponsored by OCS, the Graduate Student Council, Harvard Graduate Women in Science and Engineering, the Office for Postdoctoral Affairs, and the Office for Faculty Development and Diversity.