Alyssa Gregory, M.D.

What this award means: It affirms the efforts that I have made to pay forward the tutoring and mentorship I have received. It is so wonderful to know that the encouragement I share during tutoring sessions is helping those coming along after me.

Mentor comment: Alyssa has always shown a genuine passion for teaching and a commitment to ensuring students fully understand their coursework. Alyssa makes challenging material approachable and clear. Students have said, “I can hear her voice when I take the test,” which is a testament to her ability to make tutoring sessions fun and memorable. – Rosemary Meredith, Ed.D., Associate Director of Student Academic Support Services

Background and family: I am from Lubbock, Texas. My parents and younger sister have always encouraged me to fully explore my interests and supported my education and career path.

College: I graduated summa cum laude from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts in music, with a concentration in the oboe. I also got my start with teaching during this time by tutoring high school students as well as other college students in a variety of subjects.

What led to your career path: Despite not having any physicians in my family, I knew from a young age that I was interested in helping others through science and medicine. Then, as a teenager, I became severely ill myself and saw firsthand how impactful an excellent physician can be in the lives of their patients. That experience confirmed for me that medicine and pediatrics was a true calling in my life.

UTSW activities: In addition to tutoring students through Student Academic Support Services, I have been involved in medical education research and several peer mentoring initiatives. I served as a student leader for Southwestern Christian Fellowship and have gone on medical mission trips to El Paso, Texas. I volunteer with the United to Serve community health fair and the annual Teddy Bear Clinic.

What words describe your UTSW experience: Growth, support, joy, and community.

One tip for medical school success: Take advantage of the learning environment by taking a swing at an answer, even if you end up being wrong, since that is where the best learning happens.

Favorite way to relieve stress: I enjoy journaling (with a colorful glitter pen of the day) while spending time with my geriatric cat, Charli.

Surprising fact: I love rainy days! I think it stems from growing up in an area that was frequently in a drought. A rainy day is perfect for curling up inside with a good book.

Future plans: I will start my pediatrics residency this summer at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where I will continue to connect with, care for, and educate my pediatric patients and their families. I plan on being involved in medical education throughout my career and paying forward all the helpful advice and mentoring I have received.

About the award: The Vanatta, Hesser, Schmalstieg Excellence in Tutoring Award recognizes graduating medical students who have made outstanding contributions to serve fellow medical students in need of academic assistance.