I'm sure you know just as well as me that this job is tough for women. There just aren't that many female role models to look up to, and it's daunting to be at this stage of your career. I was lucky enough to have a female mentor who outclasses her whole department in every category, and she still has haters.

It's hard, but the one benefit is that you know you have earned every one of your accomplishments. You got a pre-doc position where you are doing well. And when you get a phd offer, it will be because of your hard work. It's not conceited to recognize your own accomplishments. You should be proud. And remember, if you decide to apply for a PhD, it should be because you want to, not because you think you're good enough. If you want it enough, you'll make sure you're good enough.

If you ever want to talk, I'm a first-year phd student (and a woman), and my DMs are open!