Navigating Imposter Syndrome Through Peer Review Experiences
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Chapter 1: Understanding Peer Review
Having just completed a peer review for a scientific journal, I can almost hear the Imposter Police approaching, ready to arrest me for pretending to be a competent scientist! The specter of Imposter Syndrome is having a good laugh at my expense.
If you're unfamiliar with the concept of "peer review," it refers to a critical process that ensures that scientific research published in reputable journals meets necessary standards. Peer reviewers are tasked with reading submitted manuscripts, suggesting changes, and determining whether the work requires revisions or is unfit for publication. The feedback they provide is forwarded to the editor of the journal, who makes the ultimate decision.
Authors must then revise their papers based on the reviewers' suggestions and resubmit, provided their work hasn’t been outright rejected. Typically, two reviewers assess each manuscript, remaining anonymous to each other and to the authors to prevent bias.
Recently, I finished my second peer review. When I received my first invitation last year, I genuinely believed it was a mistake. I checked the details multiple times, and everything seemed correct. I had set up an account on the journal’s website because I intended to submit my own research there, and I had indicated my willingness to participate in peer reviews. Yet, I never thought an editor would actually assign me a manuscript, especially since most reviewers are usually completing a Doctorate, while I only hold a Master’s degree.
My anxiety was palpable during my first review. I wanted to be supportive to the authors, which led me to provide rather basic feedback and only one suggestion for improvement. When the other reviewer, clearly more experienced, submitted their comments, I felt like crawling under a blanket and never coming out. They had pointed out numerous critical issues that I had overlooked, leaving me to worry that the editor might blacklist me.
Several months later, I received another invitation. It lingered in my inbox for a week until I got a notification saying it had been reassigned to someone else. I hadn’t even responded to indicate that I needed more time to decide or to decline. I was sure I wouldn’t receive another invitation.
Then, just four days ago, another invitation popped up. I quickly replied, expressing my availability, still in disbelief! This time, I focused on addressing all necessary points while still wanting to be considerate of the authors’ feelings.
As for the image I chose earlier, it represents how I wish to appear: polished, with an elegant watch, exuding confidence. In reality, I was lounging in an oversized hoodie, slumped in my chair, munching on cookies. Yet, I remind myself that there are no strict dress codes for reviewers, and my comfort doesn’t detract from the review process!
I now feel more assured in my ability to assess someone else's work. While I still grapple with feelings of inadequacy and discomfort in delivering critical feedback, I appreciate that I responded promptly this time, not letting anxiety hold me back.
If you've ever missed an opportunity due to indecision, remember that it's never too late to make a change. Another chance will always come around, and this time, seize it!