Beatris Mendez Gandica

Throughout my journey in tech, I’ve dealt with moments of doubt and imposter syndrome feeling like I didn’t belong or wasn’t “good enough.” These feelings often surfaced when I was the only woman or person of color in the room, or when I faced challenges that others seemed to navigate with ease. But over time, I’ve learned that imposter syndrome isn’t a reflection of your actual ability, it's often a result of being in spaces that weren’t designed with your identity or background in mind. What’s helped me most is surrounding myself with community, people who see my potential and remind me that I do belong. Also, keeping a “win journal” where I jot down little and big successes helps me track how far I’ve come. My advice: when you feel doubt, take action anyway. Progress comes from showing up, even when you’re unsure. And remember, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Many successful people still feel imposter syndrome sometimes. It doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re growing.

One of the biggest disappointments I faced was not getting into the college I had dreamed of. At the time, it felt like the end of the world. But looking back, that “no” opened the door to incredible opportunities: I studied abroad in Germany, met lifelong mentors, and ultimately earned my degree at the University of Wisconsin, an experience that shaped my career in ways I could’ve never predicted. Sometimes, life’s redirections are the best gifts in disguise. Just because something doesn’t go as planned doesn’t mean it won’t work out, even better than you imagined.

To reduce imposter syndrome and barriers for underrepresented individuals in technical fields, companies and organizations can: Implement mentorship programs Normalize vulnerability Redesign hiring and evaluation processes to reduce bias Offer sponsorship opportunities, not just mentorship Invest in equitable access to early STEM exposure through school partnerships, nonprofits, and community programs, so students can see themselves in tech before doubt sets in. Ultimately, the goal should be to change the system, not just ask individuals to constantly prove they belong in it.