What were your expectations for the Mentoring Program?

I approached the Young ISSNAF Mentoring Program hoping for support in navigating the complex and often confusing process of applying for academic positions in the United States. I expected to gain clarity on how the U.S. academic system works and to receive practical advice on how to improve my application materials and approach.

How did this experience impact you?

The program proved to be extremely valuable. With the guidance of my mentor, Prof. Filippo Mancia of Columbia University, I was able to better understand the U.S. academic environment and refine my academic trajectory. We held regular Skype meetings every 2–3 months to discuss faculty applications, career planning, and strategic presentation of my work. Even though Filippo is not in my specific field, he provided insightful feedback on the structure, goals, and clarity of my application materials. His perspective—as someone already well integrated into the U.S. academic system—was especially helpful in translating expectations and making my applications stronger and more effective.

Why would you recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program?

I highly recommend the ISSNAF Mentoring Program to Italian researchers aiming to enter the U.S. academic environment. The opportunity to receive mentorship from an Italian scholar who has successfully navigated the system offers a unique and practical advantage. Additionally, having a mentor outside my immediate academic circle provided objective feedback that helped me better communicate my work to a broader audience. I'm truly grateful to ISSNAF for this opportunity.