Navigating Imposter Syndrome at APIC
From the moment I booked my flight to Orlando, to the exhilarating anticipation of entering the doors of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) conference, I was engulfed by waves of anxiety. Thoughts such as, “Do I truly belong here?” and “I know so little compared to all these seasoned professionals,” constantly haunted my mind. Even as I collected my badge, the nagging self-doubt persisted. However, the transformative power of the conference began to unfold the moment I stepped into the opening ceremony and heard the inspiring words of Bertice Berry;
“You’re the real deal. The imposter is the person who accidentally walked into the door. You’re the person who worked for this moment.”
As the crowd erupted in applause for Berry’s motivational speech, I experienced a profound sense of relief and empowerment. Her words reminded me that I was not an imposter, but rather someone who had worked diligently to reach this milestone in my career. It was a reassuring realization that the anxieties I had harbored were likely shared by many in the room. With renewed confidence, I entered the conference space, albeit with some residual anxiety, ready to embrace the opportunities that lay ahead.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome:
The quote from Bertice Berry became a guiding light, helping me navigate through the maze of self-doubt. I embraced the notion that I was indeed the “real deal” and that the imposter was simply a figment of my imagination. The weight of impostor syndrome gradually lifted, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the conference experience. I began to see the value of my unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions, realizing that they were the result of my dedication and hard work.
Welcoming Mentorship and Collaboration:
A pivotal moment came when I had the privilege of interacting with Sue Mendley-Lane. Our conversation flowed effortlessly as she graciously welcomed my thoughts and questions about infection prevention and control (IPAC) in correctional facilities. She provided invaluable guidance and shared resources, reinforcing the idea that APIC was a place for continuous learning and that curiosity was embraced. Sue’s warmth and willingness to engage with me erased any lingering doubts I had about reaching out to experienced professionals. This encounter not only solidified my belief in the supportive nature of the APIC community but also sparked a newfound enthusiasm within me.
With Sue’s guidance, I delved deeper into the intricacies of IPAC in correctional facilities. She shared her experiences, challenges, and successes in implementing effective infection prevention measures in such unique settings. Sue’s expertise inspired me to explore innovative approaches tailored to correctional environments, where infection control is a complex and critical issue. Her encouragement to think outside the box and adapt strategies to specific challenges bolstered my confidence in addressing the diverse needs of different healthcare settings.
Embracing a Learning Mindset:
As my initial hours at APIC unfolded, I noticed a profound shift in my perspective. It became easier for me to ask questions, realizing that the queries I had were shared by many of my peers. I learned that asking questions did not make me appear foolish; rather, it showcased my genuine passion for my career. By actively seeking clarification, I not only dispelled my doubts but also empowered myself to excel in my profession. This newfound confidence inspired me to share my knowledge and provide education to others who may not have had the opportunity to experience this transformative moment.
Unlocking Knowledge and Expertise:
APIC, with its incredible educators and attendees, became a treasure trove of information, unveiling various concepts within infection control that I thought I had mastered. The conference revealed the depth of my own knowledge and challenged me to expand my horizons. It was a humbling realization that I possessed more expertise than I had previously acknowledged. APIC taught me that I was in that room, surrounded by brilliant minds, for a reason—to contribute my unique perspective and skills to the field of infection prevention and control.
The APIC conference provided a transformative experience that exceeded my expectations. The quote from Bertice Berry, “You’re the real deal. The imposter is the person who accidentally walked into the door. You’re the person who worked for this moment,” echoed in my mind throughout the conference, serving as a constant reminder of my worth and the value I brought to the table. It shattered the shackles of imposter syndrome, empowered me to ask questions fearlessly, and enriched my knowledge and understanding of infection prevention and control. The invaluable mentorship and collaborations I formed have further solidified my commitment to making a difference in my career as an IPAC consultant.
I am eager to apply the concepts and insights gained from the conference to create a positive impact and contribute to the advancement of infection prevention and control practices.
