The B-Xcellent Podcast

Imposter Syndrome

Dr. Brandon Harrison-Smith is back with an in-depth exploration of imposter syndrome, a pervasive challenge that students and professionals alike may find themselves facing.. 
Through the story of Maya, a first-generation college student, Dr. Harrison-Smith illustrates the subtle pressures and biases that can trigger feelings of inadequacy, particularly for underrepresented groups in academia. He explains how imposter syndrome manifests in various forms, including perfectionism and fear of failure, and reveals the ways these feelings undermine confidence and performance. 
Dr. Harrison-Smith then goes on to offer valuable strategies to recognize, understand, and combat imposter syndrome, encouraging listeners to embrace their abilities and navigate challenges with confidence. Ultimately, this episode highlights that imposter syndrome does not have to limit one’s academic or professional success. Instead, with the right mindset and tools, listeners can turn self-doubt into an opportunity for growth, unlocking their full potential.
 
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Imposter Syndrome
01:09 Maya’s Story A First Generation Student’s Struggle
04:41 What is Imposter Syndrome?
05:50 Types of Imposter Syndrome Explained
06:46 How Imposter Syndrome Affects Performance
07:20 Key Drivers of Imposter Syndrome
07:47 Strategies to Combat Imposter Syndrome
09:10 Important Reminders as You Begin This New Semester
Key Takeaways:
"Imposter syndrome is a pattern where an individual doubts their accomplishments and fears being exposed as a fraud."
 
"Maya's story is one that many first-generation and underrepresented students can relate to."
 
"The microaggressions, though small in isolation, accumulated, leaving Maya feeling isolated and unsupported."
 
"Imposter syndrome may affect as many as 82% of people at some point in their life."
 
"Recognize that it's okay to feel this way. Acknowledging it is your first step."
 
"Challenge those negative thoughts. Replace 'I'm not good enough' with 'I've worked hard to be here and I deserve this.'"
 
"Learning thrives from the meeting of minds and the collective generation of ideas."
 
"Connect with others. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly liberating."
 
"Seek out mentors who can offer guidance and reassurance. They've likely been where you are."
 
"Your potential is not measured by how easily you succeed, but how resilient you are as you navigate your path to success."
 
Links:
B-Xcellent Podcast: https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/Academics/Graduate/b-xcellent/index_html

Freshman Year Advice: What I Wish I Knew Before College

Dr. Brandon Harrison-Smith sits down with two first-year engineering students, Jada Andrews and Brooke Sanders, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to college. They share their experiences with academic preparation, navigating the new learning environment, building support systems, and adjusting priorities. From pre-college programs to the importance of mentorship and embracing failure, Jada and Brooke offer valuable insights for current and future college students. Dr. Harrison-Smith adds his perspective, providing advice on extracurricular involvement, time management, and the importance of viewing college as a journey of self-discovery and career exploration.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction and guest introductions02:37 Academic preparation for college04:01 Pre-college programs and their effectiveness05:15 Reflecting on pre-college preparation06:18 Academic challenges and support systems09:30 Utilizing campus resources: tutoring, office hours, study groups11:08 The challenge of seeking help & overcoming the ego13:00 Finding community and support through MEP (Minorities in Engineering Program)15:00 Accessing and utilizing academic support systems16:00 Time management and self-directed learning18:05 Shifting priorities and balancing academics and personal life20:30 Lessons learned and strategies for success22:25 Learning how to fail and bounce back24:10 Advice for incoming college students25:20 Seeking mentorship and guidance27:10 The importance of networking and connections28:20 Q&A: Students ask Dr. Harrison-Smith for advice29:50 Prioritizing academics and extracurricular activities31:00 Approachability of professors32:20 Dr. Harrison-Smith’s experience with failure and the importance of resilience35:30 Viewing college as a journey of self-discovery and career exploration
Key Takeaways:
"Even if you understand everything that's going on in class, you do have to take the time on your own to go back and review everything." - Jada
"Just be aware that college is different than high school. You have more freedom." - Brooke
"Maybe failing a test will kind of help you get that mentality where it's like, it's okay, the world is not ending." - Brooke
"It's not about failing, it's about what you do after you failed." - Dr. Harrison-Smith
"College is just so fun and inviting… remember the main thing is the main thing, and that's getting your degree." - Dr. Harrison-Smith
"Your GPA don't matter at that point [job applications]. So what is the main focus? The main focus is getting that degree." - Dr. Harrison-Smith
"Each semester, each class you take, each internship, each interaction you have should really dictate what you plan to do with your life." - Dr. Harrison-Smith
Links:
B-Xcellent Podcast: https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/Academics/Graduate/b-xcellent/index_htmlPurdue MEP (Minorities in Engineering Program): https://www.purdue.edu/learningcommunities/profiles/engineering/engr_bootcamp.html

Navigating New Beginnings in Academia

Embarking on a journey in higher education can be as daunting as it is exciting. To help ease this transition, I'm excited to share our latest episode from the B-Xcellent 7 Tip series: "Navigating New Beginnings in Academia."​
This episode is dedicated to students stepping into the world of higher education and aims to equip them with essential strategies for success. From creating a productive environment and setting SMART goals to staying organized, we've compiled seven key tips that are crucial for navigating this new chapter.​
Whether you're a freshman or returning to academia after a break, these insights are designed to help you build a solid foundation for your educational journey. Here’s what you can expect to learn:​
- Crafting Your Success Space​
- SMART Goal Setting: What It Is and How to Do It​
- Organizational Strategies for Academic Excellence​
…and more.​
We believe that success in academia is not just about hard work; it's about working smart and creating a supportive ecosystem for your studies. So, if you or someone you know is about to start their academic journey, this episode is a must-listen.​
🎧 Tune in to "Navigating New Beginnings in Academia" and start your educational journey on the right foot. 

Season 1 Highlights and Horizon

Welcome back to the B-Xcellent STEM Talk series! In this special episode, 'Reflect & Advance: Season 1 Highlights & Season 2 Preview,' we journey back through the inaugural season to spotlight our top 7 sound bites. Each moment is a testament to the challenges and triumphs within the STEM community, particularly focusing on underrepresented voices. We'll reflect on the lessons learned, the stories shared, and the community we've built together. But we won't just look back – we'll also share exciting plans for Season 2, promising more in-depth discussions, innovative perspectives, and continued commitment to STEM equity. This episode is perfect for long-time fans seeking to relive the best moments and newcomers eager to discover what B-Xcellent STEM Talk is all about. Join us as we recap, reflect, and set the stage for an even more inspiring Season 2. Your journey towards understanding and impacting the STEM landscape continues here.

Innovating for Impact - Engineering Solutions to Social Challenges

🚀 Meet the engineer who’s not just solving equations but societal equations too, on this week’s episode of The B-Xcellent Podcast! Our guest, a driven PhD student from Purdue University, is at the cutting-edge of mechanical engineering, where fluid mechanics and flow control meet future-focused aviation innovation. 🛫.
From India to Purdue, her journey is a blueprint for precision, efficiency, and social consciousness in engineering. She's applying her mastery of noise reduction and energy conservation to pave the way for quieter skies and a cleaner world.
In our conversation, we uncover the riveting process of turning complex design challenges into tangible, socially responsible engineering solutions. Discover how her statistical acumen and product development skills are not just advancing aviation but are also addressing pressing social challenges like migration and gender inclusion in STEM. 🌍
Her story is a powerful narrative that interweaves the robust technicalities of engineering with the delicate fabric of societal needs, exemplifying how innovative minds are crucial to engineering a better world for all.
🔊 Join us for an inspiring dialogue that captures the essence of engineering with purpose.

Engineering Success: Dr. Brandon Pitts Secrets to Thriving in Human Factors, Automation, and Beyond

Our guest, Dr. Brandon Pitts, is a renowned expert in the fields of human factors, cognitive ergonomics, human-automation interaction, adaptive interface design, and the exciting realms of autonomous driving and aviation. Through engaging discussions and personal anecdotes, Dr. Pitts shares his incredible journey and success in these multifaceted domains. Tune in to gain unique insights from a true trailblazer in the world of technology and human-centered engineering. 

”STEM, Climate, and Excellence: A Journey Through Turbulence and Academic Curiosity”

 In this episode, we take a journey down memory lane with Dr. Luciano Castillo, an Endowed Chair in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Purdue University. We discuss topics such as staying academically curious and addressing issues of Climate Change. So get fired up and let’s learn together what it takes to B-Xcellent!

Chemistry of Community

Join us as we discuss with PhD Candidate Sopuruchukwu Ezenwa the importance of having/finding a community for academic success.

A CATALYST FOR CHANGE Ep 03

Today we talk to Bereket Bekele as he discusses his experience as an international student and Ph.D. student in Chemical Engineering at Purdue University.  Join us as we also discuss the catalyst for change for improving the STEM field through Diversity. 

Engineering our Future

Today we talk to Dr. Green as we discover how went from growing tadpoles as a kid to a professor who explores the origami of DNA for different therapeutic applications.