Students of the Faculty of Natural Sciences discussing in a lab. © Thomas Angus, Imperial College London

Welcome to this tab! Here, we acknowledge the common feelings of self-doubt many students experience, especially during their first year. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Our goal is to provide resources, support, and stories from fellow students to help you navigate these emotions and build confidence as you begin your university journey. Remember, everyone belongs here, including you!

Image credit: Thomas Angus, Imperial College London

Student Testimonial

Let’s hear from Stefaniia, the RCSU vice-president for welfare, about imposter phenomenon also known as imposter syndrome.

Tips and advice

  • Recognise and acknowledge your feelings as it is very common and all of us have experienced feelings of self-doubt
  • We want to reiterate that you are not alone and talking about these feelings with friends, personal tutors and counsellors can help immensely
  • Remember that you have made it this far which is a testament to your determination and grit. We would recommend keeping a track of your accomplishments, small and big, to keep reminding yourself of how amazing you are
  • Recognise that achieving perfection is unrealistic and that making mistakes is natural and evidence of learning. Strive for realistic and achievable goals
  • Use feedback from lecturers, tutors and your coursework to improve and progress
  • Set aside time for self care to exercise, paint, eat or even rewatch your favourite shows because we all deserve some downtime after a strenuous week

Additional Resources

As part of the mental health services, Imperial offers a program called SilverCloud – an online self-help program. Mental health and student counselling services are also available for individual and group counselling as well as advice and support for any mental health difficulties.

The Blyth Centre, named after a lecturer at Imperial, is a good resource for unwinding as it is a centre for Art and Music. They have many lunchtime concerts put on during the year. You can also book practice rooms for different instruments and also browse an Art gallery on Sherfield level 4.

Music events being put on by the Blyth Centre can be found here. While art events being put on can be found here. They also have many art classes and music classes on offer throughout the year!