Sci.STORIES
Interview with the mentee Boris Dymov

Interview with the season 2025 mentee Boris Dymov

Interviewer: Evgenia Vorobyeva

In this interview, we speak with Boris Dymov, a mentee from the 2025 season of Sci.STEPS - a mentoring program designed to support early-career researchers navigating the complexities of academic life. A former mentee - now a mentor - Boris shares his motivations, experiences, and the impact the program had on his career path, including his recent transition into a PhD position and his decision to return as a mentor.

Finding direction in uncertain times

Evgeniya: What motivated you to join Sci.STEPS as a mentee?

Boris: I applied because I had questions I couldn’t answer alone. I was working on my master’s thesis and trying to figure out whether a PhD was the right path for me. I needed guidance - how to choose a lab, how to approach interviews, and whether my plans made sense. I also wanted a reality check: are the things happening to me normal? Are my goals realistic?

Evgeniya: Was this your first experience with being a mentee?

Boris: Yes, it was. My university offers strong social support, like online calls about career options, but I haven’t found anything like Sci.STEPS. This program was completely different - more personal, more structured.

The power of community

Evgeniya: What stood out to you most during the program?

Boris: The group experience was really impactful. It wasn’t just one-on-one mentoring - we had a community. The Discord server, the events, the social interactions - it all felt very engaging. That sense of belonging and shared experience was important to me.

Evgeniya: How did you find the events?

Boris: Mixed feelings, honestly. The events themselves were great - especially the summer meetup, which was fantastic. But I had trouble finding information about some events, maybe due to how Discord was organized. 

Evgeniya: Did you attend any recordings?

Boris: I think I saw one, but I’m not sure. I do remember attending several events, and they were all high-quality. It was a very busy time, so it was great that recordings were made and i even had the opportunity to "attend" asynchronously. 

Reaching the goal

Evgeniya: By the end of the program, where were you in terms of your goal?

Boris: I was much closer to my goal than when I started. Some things didn’t work out - sometimes it’s just luck - but overall, it was a success. I felt more confident and prepared.

Evgeniya: And now, half a year later?

Boris: I have a PhD position now! So yes, it worked out. I did get some extra help later after the programs from Olya Vvedenskaya, so I might be a bit biased. So, the program and network from the program helped me look at things more healthily, especially in academia. It still shapes my behavior and thinking.

Giving back

Evgeniya: I know you’ve applied as a mentor this season. What inspired that?

Boris: A few things. First, I received something valuable, and I want to give back. I can’t do that financially, so I do it this way. Second, I want to share my experiences and help guide others. And third, mentoring helps you reflect and grow. It’s a win-win.

Advice for future mentees

Evgeniya: What would you say to someone considering applying?

Boris: The application form itself is a great tool - it helps you reflect on your goals and challenges. So maybe going through the form – even if you are unsure that its something for you - can be super helpful. This program isn’t a magic bullet, but it’s a collaboration between you and someone who genuinely wants to help. That’s powerful.

Evgeniya: Anything else you’d like to share?

Boris: Just gratitude. My mentor was amazing, even though we came from slightly different fields - he was in physics, I’m in chemistry. We adjusted, and it worked out. My application was on the “waiting list” initially, and got a mentor a bit later, and I’m really thankful for that. You can tell the organizers care deeply, and that makes all the difference.

Thank you, Boris, for sharing your journey. Your story is a testament to the power of mentorship, community, and reflection. We’re thrilled to have you back as a mentor and look forward to seeing how you continue to grow - and help others grow - through Sci.STEPS.

About Sci.STEPS

Sci.STEPS scientific mentorship program offers mentees a set of advantages. It provides access to expert knowledge and experience, allowing mentees to learn from scientists who have successfully navigated their fields. The mentorship network provides mentees with a supportive environment to seek advice, share their aspirations, and build professional relationships. Participation in a long-term program or short-term targeted consultations also aid in personal growth, improving essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, and time management. Ultimately, the mentorship program nurtures mentees' scientific passion and equips them with the tools they need to pursue their goals with confidence.