“Intern on the Outside, Spiral on the Inside”: Residency and Imposter Syndrome
In the July 2025 issue of **Sole Purpose**, Dr. Savannah M. Santiago, DPM, reflects on navigating imposter syndrome during podiatry residency, sharing deeply personal anecdotes and practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt.
Key Takeaways:
- What Is Imposter Syndrome? A psychological pattern where successful individuals feel like frauds, fearing they’ll be exposed despite clear achievements.
- The First Month: Dr. Santiago recounts being overwhelmed—getting lost in the hospital, struggling with EMR systems, and doubting her ability to perform basic surgical tasks—even as an otherwise competent student.
- Facing Fear in Public: Invited to give her first conference lecture on opioid prescribing, she prepared meticulously yet feared failure. Her honesty and self-deprecating humor won over the audience and boosted her confidence.
- Off-Service Anxiety: Rotations outside podiatry—like in the ER or general medicine—elicited fresh waves of self-doubt. She describes missing a STEMI on ECG, feeling exposed, but then recovering and learning from the mistake.
- Realization: You’re Not Alone: Shared stories from peers in residency prove imposter syndrome is universal. Dr. Santiago emphasizes that one mistake doesn’t define competence—and that self-doubt often reflects your passion and dedication.
- Strategies & Encouragement: – Keep evidence of past successes (e.g., evaluations, recommendation letters) to counter doubt.
– Lean on mentors, peers, and personal achievements when confidence falters.
– Frame errors as growth opportunities—residency exists to teach.
– Remind yourself that being chosen for residency is proof you belong.
Whether you’re a newcomer or midway through training, Dr. Santiago’s message is clear: imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re unqualified—it often means you care deeply. Keep showing up, stay curious, and know you belong in medicine.
Keywords:
Dr. Savannah M. Santiago,
imposter syndrome,
podiatry residency,
professional development,
mentorship,
mental health