Ep 188: Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Mentorship in Veterinary Medicine, with Dr. Crystal Boles

Podcast DescriptionJoin us in this insightful episode of "So You’re a Vet, Now What?" where Dr. Moriah McCauley, the podcast's host, engages in a candid and thought-provoking conversation with board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Crystal Bowles. The episode sheds light on the ever-relevant theme of imposter syndrome and the journey through doubts and mentorship in the veterinary profession.Dr. Bowles reflects on her own experience, tracing back to her early days in vet school when she began to question her qualifications and direction in the field. The conversation touches on the pivotal moments when doubts surfaced, primarily during her fourth year of vet school, and the pressures of career decisions when comparing herself to her peers.With refreshing honesty, Dr. Bowles shares her personal journey, including the decision to pursue an internship for guidance and the crucial role camaraderie played among peers facing similar uncertainties. She elaborates on the struggle with imposter syndrome, a sentiment that even seasoned professionals in the veterinary field commonly experience.The conversation navigates through the discovery of self-confidence and validation that emerged after attaining her ophthalmology residency, emphasizing the continued presence of imposter syndrome in the face of accomplishments. Dr. Bowles highlights the importance of mentorship and support, particularly during challenging moments, showcasing the impact mentorship had on her decision-making.Furthermore, Dr. Bowles encourages mentees to engage in self-exploration, focusing on their end goals and finding their sources of joy within various veterinary disciplines. Her journey of self-discovery and realization of her passion for ophthalmology serves as an inspiration for those navigating their paths in the veterinary field.The episode concludes with the acknowledgment that it's okay not to pursue a veterinary career if it doesn't align with personal desires and emphasizes the significance of community and mentorship in navigating career doubts and decisions.Tune in to this enriching conversation between Dr. Moriah McCauley and Dr. Crystal Bowles, offering invaluable insights for early-stage veterinarians and students navigating imposter syndrome and seeking mentorship in their veterinary careers.Episode Outline [02:42] Early Career Doubts and Challenges [06:13] Discovery of Self-Confidence and Validation [09:14] The Crucial Role of Mentorship and Support [13:56] Encouraging Self-Exploration and Goal Definition [19:29] Final Thoughts [22:02] The endQuotes "At the end of the day, you can do it. It's just a matter of, are you willing to allow yourself to have those doubts along the way?""Life is way too short to be sitting in misery. It's okay if you don't want to do it. It's okay to have gone through four years of vet school, get your DVM degree, and decide you don't want to do it.""Everything else is going to fall into place. At the end of the day, what is it that you see yourself wanting to do? Because everything else is going to fall into place." "Why me? There are so many veterinarians out there, so many people who want to become veterinarians. Why do I feel like I can do it? It seems like everybody else has their stuff together and I'm still trying to just figure it out."Connect with Crystal BowlesInstagramMentioned in this episode:So You're a Vet, Now What? - The...