This summer, Class of 2014 graduate Dr. Edward Daniele began a fellowship in plastic surgery at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Prior to that, he served as Chief Resident of the general surgery residency program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where he had the opportunity to learn from fellow AUC School of Medicine alumni including Steven Brooks, MD ‘05, Assistant Professor of Surgery and Trauma Medical Director.
We caught up with Dr. Daniele to learn more about his experience during medical school, what sparked his interest in plastic surgery, and advice for others.
How did you decide to specialize in plastic surgery?
My love for the field of plastic surgery grew throughout my general surgery residency at Texas Tech University. Plastic surgeons treat everyone, both pediatric and elderly, and can simply reconstruct anything you throw their way. I love that plastic surgeons can look at defects, whether congenital or acquired, and find not one, but a multitude of ways to perfect them.
Can you share a bit about your experience working with Dr. Steven Brooks as fellow alumni of AUC School of Medicine?
Dr. Brooks is an excellent surgeon and mentor and he helped me tremendously both as a medical student and as a surgery resident. He is a fantastic role model, and I aim to be more like him on a daily basis when it comes to guiding medical students through the tough waters of finding a residency, and teaching junior residents through positive reinforcement.
Any advice or thoughts for others interested in pursuing the field?
My advice might be cliché, but looking back at my last nine years in the medical field (four years of medical school, five years of general surgery residency, 1st year plastic surgery resident), the one thing I can confidently say, is “Never give up.” I can still hear my college advisors tell me I won’t make it in medicine, and other medical students tell me I can’t match into a surgical specialty. This did nothing but drive me to work harder and prove everyone wrong.
What did you find most rewarding or valuable about your medical school experience?
As I look back on my medical school years, I am nothing but thankful for AUC School of Medicine. What is most rewarding is that the school gave me a chance to turn my dreams into reality. Not only did AUC School of Medicine pave the way for me to become a general surgeon, but it allowed me to further my surgical education in the competitive field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
