You Are Not Alone, Everyone In Computer Science And Cybersecurity Deals With Imposter Syndrome
Have you ever felt like what you’re doing and what you know isn’t enough? That you’re actually underqualified and don’t know everything as well as you should know it, even if you’re proficient at it? This is common for Computer Science/Cybersecurity/Information technology students or employees and you’re not the only one feeling this way.
According to a study consisting of a blind survey of 10,000 tech employees conducted by codementor.io over 58% of tech employees have imposter syndrome and over 73% have experienced it sometime in their careers. Although this syndrome is habitual in many different fields, it is amplified in tech, so much so that theres is programmer imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is amplified in tech because of the constant evolution of software development in the field and because of the perception of perfect employees in tech. The idea of the need to appear extra smart and always being ontop of things is often more destructive then helpful. Programmer Imposter Syndrome are often fit enough for the job but also self-doubt of not being good enough despite their accomplishments and recognition.
I’ve personally delt with this myself and so have my mentors. In a CodePath Android development class the instructor (A Senior Developer working for Tiktok) even shared that she too experienced this, despite her success working for other major companies. This comes to show that it’s not only a beginner thing, it happens to anyone. To overcome this sensation its important to become comfortable in the uncomfortable, have an adaptive mindset, and remember that not everyone actually knows everything on what they’re doing, just remember to stay focused, work on your craft, and understand the tasks impossibility. It’s key to know that you’re part of that team, project or group for a reason. Best of luck!
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