There have been some fairly engaging stories of imposters over the years. See The Pretty Good Imposter (July 2026). There have been a fair few over the years who inflated their credentials, though that could be a matter of perspective.
The opposite effect is called "the imposter syndrome." The National Institutes of Health describes it as people who "attribute their success to external factors, rather than their own merit." I look around the world of workers' compensation, and I see both exemplified, or at least potentially so.
In August 2026 a news story broke about an "influencer and reality show participant." For clarity, an "influencer" is someone who makes videos to draw viewers and the revenue streams they generate. It takes the old "being the popular kid" and makes it a job.
And "reality" television is nothing even akin to "real." Influencers can strive for their 15 minutes in some of the oddest ways. See The Collar Bone's Connected to ... (October 2026).
This "influencer and reality show participant" documented her arduous participation in and graduation from Duke University Physician Assistant School. The only rub? Turns out no one at Duke has apparently ever heard of this (alleged) student.
A student who actually (apparently) attends that school posted a video in which various inconsistencies and inaccuracies were alleged in the influencer/alleged imposter's story.
Little details tripped her up. Like her name not being called at graduation. Or wearing the wrong color hood in staged graduation photos. Or not being in the class photo. Or, here is a tough one, not appearing in any records at Duke University. All of those should say "allegedly."
Perhaps this all turns out to be a mistake or malevolence (you know, "the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate"; Shake It Off, Taylor Swift 2014). Perhaps she did attend, participate, and graduate. Perhaps in time this influencer will demonstrate that both her struggles and achievement are real. It would not be the first time that the internet sleuths got something wrong.
Or, perhaps she is an actual imposter who was searching for clicks, dopamine, oxytocin, or even money? Imposters are a thing. And that may be patent, blatant, or merely debatable. Recently, society has returned to a notable debate over the meaning of the word "lawyer."
As to ease of process, if you spend any time scrolling, you know that there are places out there that will coordinate you receiving an honorary doctorate. They run hooks that undoubtedly draw interest. Who doesn't want to be called such an honorific? Critics abound. One concludes that
"It is about credential integrity, institutional responsibility, and what happens when academic legitimacy becomes a personal branding product."
There is merit in that. Even in the arena of earned degrees, there are those who look down on the EdD, the Doctor of Education degree. Some see it as having less academic rigor; there are PhD holders who bristle when an EdD is referred to as "doctor." To be sure, they display similar disdain when a JD, Juris Doctor, is afforded that honorific. See I'm a Doctor Too? (April 2023). I have known an M.D. or two who are somewhat dismissive of the PhD.
Regardless, there seems a huge chasm between criticism of your earned doctorate of any tenor and one that can be obtained through a donation or recognition. An intriguing example was a professor accused of presenting his employer "with a (master's) degree from an online 'diploma mill.'" See Ardis v. Pensacola State College, 128 So.3d 260 (Fla. 1st DCA 2013).
Nonetheless, even a purchased PhD (or any degree) is likely slightly superior to merely telling people you completed a program that has never heard of you.
On the non-attending "Duke" influencer front, I am wondering how one could hope to escape discovery. Certainly, if you make it a point to publicize your life, someone will eventually ask questions that are uncomfortable. Some friend of a friend will notice incongruities, ask questions, or make a TikTok video.
But, as to the real credentials, know that use can matter.
I have had this come up time and again over the years. Each semester, and I am currently teaching my 68th semester class, I am asked, "What do we call you?" or they simply default to "professor." I persistently decline the title because I know that it can chafe the academics. I don't decline it through some imposter syndrome, but out of respect for the PhDs and other tenure holders' sensitivity, fragility, and feelings.
Remember in 2007 when Senator Obama "referred to himself as 'a constitutional law professor?" Critics noted that those in academia see a significant "distinction between a professor who has tenure and an instructor that does not." I have never had tenure. I am simply a guy who has been around the block enough times, made enough errors, that I might teach you something.
Thus, in the spirit of Dr. Venkman, reminding Dr. Stantz and Dr. Spengler, "Boys, you're scaring the straights, okay?" I always tell my students to call me "judge" or "Dave." See You Can Call me Dave (July 2021). I have no need for honorifics or compliments, real or otherwise. I see no value in stealing valor, or even "borrowing it," for that matter.
In the end, I would suggest that there remains merit in academic endeavors. Over decades of instructing, I have tried to deliver value to my students. They are striving to build their foundations and enhance their career prospects. They are seeking knowledge and growth. I am humbled to be part of that journey. Shouldn't that be enough?
Students each need to realize that their hard work matters. Luck and chance can play a role: "chance favors the prepared mind." See Find a Path (October 2020). But you can always work on the "prepared mind" part. And you should.
Never hesitate to recognize and value your credentials; avoid feeling the "imposter." Never buy or borrow a credential you did not earn. This is true of buying a PhD or some "best of," "super," or similar accolade. Know that there are accolades for sale, and that they come with "fancy-looking seals and badges." That does not make them real or make you popular.
But if you value your experience(s) and present your value frankly, you can both believe in yourself and, rationally, ask others to do so also. Do your own work. Avoid shortcuts like AI-generated slop. Be proud of actual achievements.
And be proud of your personal output regardless of any flaws or who might disagree. I interact with many on social media. I value them, whether I agree with them or not. You can always learn from those who hold different values or beliefs. You can grow through engagement. For lawyers, this opportunity arises with every filing you receive. Read critically; ponder carefully.
Your work is yours. Your conclusions are yours. And their inherent value is not dependent upon a credential or someone's acceptance. That said, despite the value you bring, know that acceptance or persuasion may ultimately be dependent on such evidence of your credentials. Be real.
You should make sure your credentials are what you think they are and that they have real value.
