What were your expectations for the Mentoring Program?

My main expectation was to connect with the Italian research community in the United States and better understand the paths that led Italian researchers to pursue their careers abroad. In particular, I was interested in learning what opportunities the U.S. research environment offers, what challenges come with this choice, and how these experiences compare to academic paths in Italy. This was especially important for me as I was preparing my Ph.D. applications and trying to gain a clearer picture of the research culture and long-term career prospects in the U.S.

How did this experience impact you?

In this experience I was matched with Luca Luceri, who provided invaluable guidance during a critical phase of my academic journey. He supported me in refining my applications for several top-tier Ph.D. programs and fellowships in the United States, offering feedback that went beyond technical details and helped me clarify my research narrative. Through our conversations, I gained a deeper understanding of my own interests and long-term goals, as well as a more realistic view of what pursuing a research career in the U.S. entails. This mentorship significantly strengthened both my applications and my confidence in the choices I am making.

Why would you recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program?

I would recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program because it creates a unique bridge between generations of Italian scientists and engineers working in the U.S. Being able to interact with people who have already faced the same decisions, uncertainties, and transitions is incredibly valuable and the program did not offer just practical advice, but also a sense of belonging to a broader Italian scientific community abroad.