Tutoring students over the past eight years here at UT Southwestern – as both a medical student and a graduate student – made Dr. Edward Daniel realize his passion for teaching. He has helped hundreds of students absorb the tough scientific material of Cell Biology and Pharmacology courses, and his dedication even led to one of his students following in his footsteps as a tutor.

Dr. Edward Daniel

What this award means: “I originally started tutoring because I wanted to help preclinical students learn material that is often confusing. Then I realized that tutoring helped me discover a passion for teaching and medical education. I have worked countless hours to prepare and teach the materials, and I have tutored hundreds of students over the last eight years. I am extremely proud of what I have done as a tutor, and I am truly honored that the school has recognized my work by giving me this award.”

Mentor comment: “Edward’s work as a tutor with Student Academic Support Services spans both his M.D. and Ph.D. years. He was especially valuable during the rollout of a new curriculum for the Medical School in 2015 as a wonderful bridge between ‘old’ and ‘new’ for two different classes. Edward’s deep knowledge, teaching skills, humor, and heartfelt concern for fellow students will be dearly missed.” – Carol Wortham, Manager, Student Academic Support Services

Background and family: “I was born and raised in DFW. One of my two brothers is an interventional cardiologist in Houston. We are first-generation doctors in our family. I met my wife, Christina, in medical school, and we married in 2018. She is a UTSW rheumatology fellow who will be completing her training this year. We have a 5-month-old son, William.”

What led to your career path: “I remember receiving a little science kit for Christmas when I was 6 years old, and I thought it was the coolest thing. But I didn’t discover a passion for research until I worked in a lab here at UT Southwestern before starting college. As an undergrad, I discovered the growing field of stem cell, developmental, and regenerative biology and realized that I wanted to pursue a career where I can bring regenerative therapies to the clinic. This led me to apply for the M.D./Ph.D. dual-degree program and eventual matriculation to the Medical Scientist Training Program here.”

UTSW activities: “In addition to my work as a tutor, I have been heavily involved with wellness initiatives on campus. I have organized, promoted, and participated in ‘Acknowledging our Humanity,’ an event aimed at spreading mental health awareness on campus. I also work as a peer advocate, providing confidential support to other students struggling with mental health or personal issues.”

Surprising fact: “I have over 120 rubber ducks.”

Future plans: “I am pursuing an internal medicine residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. I see teaching and mentoring as central aspects to my career moving forward. I plan on staying in academia to help teach the next generation of doctors. Additionally, I fully plan to continue research.”

About the award: The award includes a certificate and $500, and honors graduating seniors who have made a significant contribution to tutoring fellow students.