E59: RJ Jenkins on Imposter Feelings, a Sign You're Doing Something Right

HigherEdJobs Podcast

What if feeling like an imposter was not a negative thing? In this episode, RJ Jenkins, director of education at the Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration, talks about imposter syndrome or what he prefers to describe as imposter feelings or a phenomenon.

Typically, imposter syndrome is described as self-doubt among high-achieving individuals who overlook their accomplishments. It's common in academia, with some estimates showing that nearly 70% of academic professionals will experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.

When he’s experienced imposter feelings, Jenkins said he was pushing himself outside his comfort zone, trying something new, taking a risk, and growing.

“And that has been the hallmark of my experience with imposter phenomenon, even today,” he said.

In this episode, Jenkins described feeling like an imposter on day one as a first-year student at Columbia University in New York City. He shares his advice for higher ed professionals so they can better support their students and staff and feel better about themselves.

Learn more in “How To Be An Imposter,” a TEDx talk from Jenkins from 2023. He was also the recipient of the 2023 HigherEdMilitary Spotlight Award.

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