What were your expectations for the Mentoring Program?

I applied to the program shortly before completing my PhD. After five years in academia, I found myself facing one of the most common questions at that stage: “Academia or industry?”

Since I had no previous experience in industry, I hoped the Mentoring Program would help me navigate this decision by allowing me to learn from established scientists in the field, connect with them, and ask questions that are often difficult to explore in depth during brief interactions, such as those at conferences.

This opportunity was extremely valuable in helping me gain confidence and clarify what my next career steps should be.

How did this experience impact you?

As my first mentoring experience, the program proved to be both impactful and highly valuable, mainly because of the meaningful connection I established with my mentor, Marzia Polito.

Marzia openly shared her professional journey with me, including both her successes and the challenges she encountered, which gave me a great deal to reflect on. Through our conversations, I learned how to approach the job market more effectively, prepare for interviews, and better understand the professional environment in the United States.

I believe that, without her guidance, I would not have been able to navigate my first steps into the American job market as successfully and confidently as I did.

Why would you recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program?

Regardless of where someone is in their career, the program can provide valuable support in many areas, including entering the job market, improving one’s research, and building collaborations with other scientists.

I highly recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program to any ambitious person seeking genuine, thoughtful advice from accomplished experts in their field.