r/PhD•
Euth_ymia

Feeling like an imposter always

Seeking advice-Social

Has anyone else ever felt like they weren't smart/good enough for their PhD application?

Not just when applying, but also during their MSc and Bsc. I've done research and my diploma on the subject, and I've studied it. But I feel like I'm not interested enough in like other people. I don't usually read books on the subject, by which I mean, let's say I got a book in a competition, but I didn't want to read it, but I had a classmate who I know had read it. (Although it should be added that an average university student wouldn't read it).

I don't know many names in the profession that I would "need" to know, and I don't know their life stories.

I don't have a strong opinion on many topics that are current in the profession, or I often prefer not to say them out loud because I'm afraid I'll say something stupid or be looked down on for it.

In addition, I feel like I don't know many basic things that I should. Let's say equations that you know by heart.

Posted May 12, 2026, 2:42 PM UTC

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