Why Do I Feel Weird About Putting Dr. in My Title?

Is it imposter syndrome?

Let’s back up a little bit earlier in my life. The only doctors I knew growing up were the ones we went to when we were sick.

I was the first in my family to get a Bachelor’s degree. And my family is small: grandparents on both sides, mom dad, 2 uncles, 1 aunt, 1 brother, and no cousins.

The highest education my dad’s mom finished was 8th grade.

I was a great student. Not necessarily the super-smart memorizing facts kind of student, but I studied and prepared for assignments and tests.

This work ethic served me well in college. There I had the opportunity to work on research projects and learned about getting my doctorate.

So, I applied and got into a doctorate program at the ripe old age of 22. I didn’t feel comfortable there. I ended up leaving with a Master’s degree.

Then, at 28, I decided to give the doctorate thing another try. I thought I wanted to be a university professor.

So, last year, I finally graduated with my doctorate degree! But, I still feel weird about being called a doctor.

Though, I have to tell my middle school students I’m not the medical type of doctor.

At first, I didn’t include my Dr. title in my Medium profile. Why should that matter? I think maybe there was still a part of me that thought I wasn’t good enough.

But then I realized — I earned this. I worked hard for it. And I’m proud of myself and my family is proud of me.

And perhaps it can be an inspiration for other first-generation college students thinking about getting more higher education.

Though, I don’t recommend student loans. That part isn't fun.