I am a master's student who moved abroad and finished an undergraduate at a highly ranked university. I've doubted myself much throughout my degree because I didn't have the proper qualifications and skills for my degree, but only the highschool exams from my "third world country". I excelled academically in my home country, so I was still accepted. After two years of little achievements and some failures, with classroom stage fright, I decided it was not for me and I applied for a master's in a different field at a less prestigious university. I was accepted based on an decent GPA. I knew it was manageable, so I didn't put much pressure on myself with marks. My bigger goal was to overcome classroom stage fright so I started seeing myself as some sort of orator or charismatic public figure. I was praised by my colleagues for my skills and they told me I should become a lecturer. After seeing that I'm doing better than the admission expectations, I started going the extra mile with studying because I thought I could best my final exams and my dissertation so that I could get a much higher GPA despite not having to. It was very unlikely, but I told myself I was able to do anything and that I was destined for success and glory and that I have a great purpose in this world, so I have to best these exams before, no matter what... and I accomplished it and I was praised for my dissertation.
I've been studying this new subject for a month. No previous experience. Classroom stage fright again. Yet I volunteered to do a presentation at a lecture. I put on the attitude of a charismatic public speaker. It went great. My colleagues said I was like a great orator. The prof praised me. Next class I was anxious and I was sweating when I was speaking. He told me after the class that I could speak in an international conference. I freaked out. The deadline for an article proposal is in two days. The other speakers are profs and PhD students. I have no experience. Delulu again? How?
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Brother, it sounds like you are blessed with tremendous grit and perseverance. Keep nourishing that inner spark through mindfulness and self-compassion.
Doubt is natural, but your past triumphs prove what you can achieve through determined spirit - not circumstances alone. For the conference, trust yourself while also learning. Speak from the heart.
Each challenge is another chance to cultivate wisdom and spread insight, however modestly. Go not as an expert but someone eager to listen, contribute where able, and lift others up. If nerves strike, breathe easy. You've got this. Faith moves mountains, so have faith in yourself.
Whatever arises, take heart that within you lies the power to uplift through humility, courage and care for people. Stay grounded yet gracious with yourself - the rest will follow. This world sorely needs your gifts. Onwards, my friend! The future is yours to shape.
just remind yourself that the reason they recommend was your ability and past success
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