This article explores how seven women at MIT Sloan confront and overcome Imposter Syndrome, sharing powerful insights on battling self-doubt and fear of failure. It highlights the importance of believing in oneself, seeking support, and courageously pursuing leadership roles to break societal ceilings.
Many professionals, regardless of their achievements, experience moments of self-doubt. This feeling is often termed Imposter Syndrome. It is a powerful internal belief that you are not good enough, that your successes are a fluke, or that you lack the necessary skills. This phenomenon is prevalent, even among highly accomplished individuals. Notably, this group of graduates was made up entirely of women, highlighting the fact that more women than men tend to report feelings of Imposter Syndrome.
Seven MIT Sloan Fellows MBA (SFMBA) students from the class of 2024 sit down to share their struggles with Imposter Syndrome and how they overcame doubts to pursue their dreams. Drawing on the profound experiences shared by these women, we derive invaluable insights into how they navigated and ultimately triumphed over Imposter Syndrome. Ultimately, their stories illustrate that you are not alone if you have ever felt this way.
The journey through Imposter Syndrome often begins with a story that we tell ourselves. MIT SFMBA, Laura Bautista, describes it as a “recorded cassette” in our minds that plays messages like, “I don’t have the capabilities” or “I’m not good enough” over and over again. (0:25) This internal narrative can be incredibly paralyzing. It stops many people from taking crucial next steps in their studies, careers, and personal lives.
Sometimes, the fear of failure can be overwhelming. It makes us postpone opportunities, even significant ones like applying to a prestigious program. This fear can truly hold you back from fulfilling your potential.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome requires intentional effort and a shift in perspective. Here are some strategies to help you get out of negative self-talk loops and move beyond self-doubt.
One of the most effective ways to combat Imposter Syndrome is to admit it. Yael Agmon advises, “Talk to your friends about it. That is what makes it go away, is first of all, admitting it.” (1:14)
Sharing these vulnerabilities helps make the feeling “go away”. Your peers can then “lift you up”. This communal support is vital.
Do not let the fear of failure paralyze you. Rebeca Pinheiro postponed her SFMBA application, and then one day she considered the worst-case scenario: not getting approved. She recalls how she shifted this paralysis: “The worst thing that can happen is that you don’t get approved. And you know what? It’s okay.” (1:07)
People often focus on everything that can go wrong when facing a new challenge. However, Another SFMBA student, Lilian Alves, reminds us that it’s essential to “Look at the upside too. All the things that can go right. All the doors that it can open.” (1:42)
Laura stresses the importance of positive self-talk: “We are capable, we are smart, [and] we are powerful. And when we are determined, we can do everything”. (0:37)
Meanwhile, Lilian challenges you to think about how unique you are and reflect on “all the things that you’ve done”. She implores you to ask yourself, “If you made it so far, why can’t you go even further?” (0:44)
Victoria Eugenia Tostado Bringas urges that, “[MIT Sloan doesn’t] want perfection; they want talent, they want willingness to improve… beliefs, conviction, [and] values. Show MIT how you are special, why you are special, and you will be here.” (0:00)
These pearls of wisdom all emphasize that the first limitation that needs to be removed is your own beliefs.
A significant aspect highlighted in the discussions is the underrepresentation of women in higher management and senior roles, especially women with children.
Erika Ramirez says there is still a “[glass] ceiling that needs to be broken.” (2:27)
Yael believes that if more women pursue programs like the MIT Sloan Fellows MBA at MIT Sloan and if more women continue to prioritize their careers, “the world will be a better place”. Women are needed “in the workplace to shine.” By stepping into these roles, women can “make a difference in the world” and “do good in the world.” (2:06)
Choosing to pursue an ambitious path, such as a Sloan Fellows MBA at MIT Sloan, often means pausing a career or even saying “no to the promotion”. This requires immense courage. Many share that they experienced doubts, wondering if they are doing the right thing or if they can continue their career progression after their studies.
Despite these doubts, for many, it becomes what Maggie Huang describes as “the nicest gift that I ever gave myself.” (2:55) For Laura, it was an exploratory step, taken without full belief at first, but yielded “totally amazing” results. (3:30)
The experiences of these seven women at MIT Sloan powerfully illustrate that Imposter Syndrome is a shared struggle, not a personal failing. It is a hurdle that can be overcome. By acknowledging self-doubt, embracing your unique talents, challenging the fear of failure, and leaning on your community, you can unlock your full potential. Furthermore, each story reflects not just personal growth, but collective strength and a shift in mindset.
As Rebeca puts it, “I hope if we can change one life, if one woman that is watching this video thinks she’s not capable… [she’ll realize] the first limitation that needs to be removed is her own belief.” (03:04)
This message is not just for women, it’s for anyone standing at the edge of a new chapter, uncertain about what lies ahead. Imposter Syndrome may whisper doubts, but these women’s stories prove that belief in yourself can speak louder.Do you want to study for an MBA? Want to hear more real-life stories like this?
Read more inspiring stories from MBA graduates and see if it is the right next step for you.
