Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Written by Claire Leonard

Starting my first semester at Mizzou, I felt like everyone else had already figured out their major, their friend group and their five year plan while I was still trying to find my classes.

Joining Matchbook was an amazing step into professional development. It gives students hands-on, real client work experience that builds confidence faster than any class I have taken at the University of Missouri. But that was exactly the problem. I worried I wasn’t ready, that I didn’t belong, that maybe I would get found out as someone who “just got lucky” with the opportunity. All of that was imposter syndrome showing up right when I needed to push myself the most.

Matchbook isn’t a place for perfection, or for people who have it all figured out. It’s a place where you work with real businesses across Missouri and beyond, create content, handle strategy and talk through ideas with a team that cares just as much as you do. That level of responsibility feels huge at first. I had plenty of days where I wondered if I was enough, but every time I doubted myself, someone on the team reminded me why I was there. The people around you at Matchbook challenge you and support you at the same time.

Over time, I began to realize that imposter feelings were just fear dressed up in academic language. I learned that confidence doesn’t mean you never feel unsure. Confidence means showing up anyway, asking questions, and believing you can learn as you go. At Matchbook, students are encouraged to explore new roles, contribute ideas and try things that might feel beyond our current skill levels. That’s how growth happens, not by always waiting to feel “ready.”

“Imposter syndrome is honestly just a feeling, not a fact. It doesn’t get to decide where you belong, nor what you’re capable of.” Said Reece Kearbey, Creative Director. 

I think what I appreciate most about Matchbook, and the Mizzou culture as a whole, is that everyone feels like they are still figuring it out. There is no mold you have to fit into. Sometimes you will create work you are proud of. Sometimes you will redo it. What matters most is that you keep showing up for the team and for your own growth. Imposter syndrome might visit, but it doesn’t get to stay.

And by the time graduation rolls around, you’ll look back and realize the person you doubted at the beginning is the one who grew the most.