John Daniel is exceptional in many ways. He has autism and was raised by his great-grandparents, who exposed him to many opportunities growing up. “Art lessons, music lessons, acting in community theatre, and helping with children’s church have made me a well-rounded individual,” reports John Daniel. 

Now, he’s heading off to the University of South Carolina to study biochemistry and molecular biology. “I’d like to do research in the field of stem cell regeneration,” says John Daniel. “I’d like to think we could find a way to help bodies heal themselves faster from injuries. 

“My passion for the advancement of the scientific community is something I’ve had since I was a young child. As I have grown, so has my interest in science.”