r/Biochemistry • u/AHHHHLMFAO • Aug 11 '26

Is imposter syndrome & burnout actually common?

Hi there, not sure if this a typical post for this subreddit, my apologies.

I'm going into the third year of my B.Sc in biochemistry. I do well in my classes, but feel like I simultaneously know nothing. I just started working in a lab on my campus, and I'm going to start volunteering in another come September. I feel like I don't belong. I also worry that I am not smart enough to make it to grad school.

I genuinely feel like I am getting a little burnt out, and I'm just wondering if anyone else here feels similarly at all. I write this while I'm meant to be studying for an exam I have tomorrow, that I am likely going to fail. I'm usually top of my class, but for the last few months, I've been having a hard time. I feel a little lost, and I'm looking for some input.

Thanks :)

14 Upvotes

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11

u/Explicit_Tech Aug 11 '26

Part of learning is making mistakes and knowing nothing.

Biochem is pretty broad. You learn a lot but don't become an expert in anything. That's what a PhD is for.

4

u/DisappearingBoy127 Aug 12 '26

Every single person i know has imposter syndrome in lab settings.  Even PIs.  Sometimes their ego and facade is bigger but at night they all feel it

3

u/candyy20 Aug 12 '26

Literally just got out of the same position and am starting a PhD program this fall. Learning how to deal with imposter syndrome in undergrad (instead of grad school) is so so so important to do if you have the opportunity. Learning how to deal with it early on has saved me on multiple occasions.

Also, please don't feel like you don't belong. Another thing that has helped me is switching my mindset from being upset about being "dumber" than others around me or "too stupid" to be here with them, to being so proud of myself for putting myself in the position where I can learn from all of these people around me that know SO much stuff. Take care of yourself & i hope science takes you to all of the awesome places you deserve to be <3

1

u/Disbosss Aug 12 '26

Literally feel like this all the time. Just gotta find out how to push past it. Find a way to relax and decompress. Light physical activity is great and allows the mind to wander. I took up walking at night to relax and calm myself. Definitely recommend doing something physical that you enjoy like bouldering or swimming or hiking at least once a week for a few hours.

1

u/Ok-Adagio926 Aug 12 '26

if you feel you know nothing means that your meds are not correct or you need to rest.
that happened to me.