Speaking Engagements for Universities and Colleges
Dr. AJ Lauer translates her 20+ years working with college students and a doctorate in leadership studies into actionable skills for managing and communicating about imposter syndrome.
Why it matters:
Imposter Syndrome has a negative impact on students' mental health.
Students with Imposter Syndrome are more likely to:
Overcompensate
Do too much work, seek absolute perfection, or overspend on clothing, alcohol, or other items, to show others that they belong here.
Procrastinate
Put off tasks or studying so they can blame failure on lack of time rather than something wrong with them.
Avoid
Not ask for help, address conflict with friends, or stand up for what is right because it's easier to just not push than risk being told they're wrong or not worthy.
Burn Out
When students compensate for their Imposter Syndrome using the other three mechanisms, they are more prone to burning out or leaving school.
The Imposter Monster Method teaches students (and faculty & staff!) how to reframe their imposter syndrome, and turn that diminishing voice in their head from a saboteur into a sidekick.
Students who work with their Imposter Monsters gain:
Increased Confidence
By understanding why they feel like an imposter in certain situations, students develop a more realistic view of their competence, the competence of others, and what it really means to meet and exceed expectations. Once they are grounded in a different viewpoint, it’s much easier to feel confident!
Healthier Coping Mechanisms
Students learn how to work with their Monster to co-create actions to take that make them feel brave and worthy of success rather than falling back on unhealthy coping mechanisms such as avoidance or procrastination.
A Powerful New Sidekick
Students' Monsters give their imposter feelings a persona. This makes it easier to realize when their actions are being driven by imposter feelings, and to learn from their Monsters, rather than being intimidated by it.
The Monster changes from the scary thing under the bed into a partner who helps them do hard things.
"Her approach was thoughtful, engaging, and grounded in real, practical strategies that resonated deeply with our team.
She created a supportive space for reflection and discussion, helping our managers feel understood and empowered."
Dave Arnold
Assistant Director of Inclusion and Talent Development, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Trusted by
Programs for students, faculty, and staff
Choose from one of the following:
From Saboteur to Sidekick
Engaging workshops and keynotes for students to help them meet and build a relationship their Imposter Monster.
Let's Talk About Imposter Syndrome
Longer sessions train faculty, staff, and student staff how to recognize their own Imposter Monsters and how to communicate with others who are struggling with imposter feelings.