Navigating Identity and Academic Aspirations

This chapter explores the intricate journey of an accomplished economist from South Side Chicago, reflecting on personal and professional challenges, including family dynamics and the pressures of academia. It delves into themes of self-perception, the impact of mentorship, and the struggle against imposter syndrome while pursuing a career at prestigious institutions like MIT and Harvard. The speaker navigates profound societal issues, examining the intersection of race, socioeconomics, and historical discrimination in their work.