So, you made it to Princeton! Chances are you’re looking forward an exciting life under the orange bubble, but what you might not anticipate is the inferiority complex you’ll instantaneously develop.. I’m talking of course about “imposter syndrome,” the little voice in your head, insisting that you don’t really belong at Princeton. Maybe it strikes when you receive your first ever B, or when you find yourself struggling to keep up with readings, or when you receive your rejection letter, notifying you of the fact that you have not been accepted to the university and should probably attend elsewhere. Whatever insecurities ail you, it’s important to have a strategy. As an…um, accepted Princetonian myself, I offer up some things that work for me:
Work Hard…
You should always be sure to study hard, pay attention in class, and give your work your best effort so that you know you’re making the most of your time here. As such, I don’t rest on my laurels as a verifiable member of the student body—getting in isn’t enough if you don’t really try. Yes, it can be frustrating when a teacher who claims I’m “not enrolled in this course” calls security to have me removed from the classroom every day. But you gotta push through it.
…But Get Help if You Need It
When imposter syndrome strikes, it’s important to seek help. As such, I’ve started seeing a therapist regularly through CPS. If you are a registered student, making use of this resource is easy. Otherwise, you may have to wait at the back entrance for the therapists to leave for lunch and rapidly explain your anxieties in the hopes that they won’t call the authorities this time..
Don’t Let Family Expectations Get in Your Way
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t always achieve the perfection your family wants for you. For example, my parents almost incessantly ask me why I won’t stop sneaking onto the Princeton campus and just matriculate to a university to which I’ve been accepted. You’ve got to find your own path.
Make Campus Feel Like Home
If you’re an admitted student and have access to housing on campus, you should ensure that your dorm is decorated in a way that makes you feel comfortable and safe. If you’re like me and are banned for breaking and entering from every res college on campus, sleeping in various trees at night can be a great substitute for the comfort a dorm provides.
I know you’re all gonna do great. Remember, have fun, and don’t let the “trespassing is prosecutable by law” signs get you down.
— AC ’21
