KIRKSVILLE, MO -- Kirksville High School Senior Ben Filkins is an all around nice guy and one of the best students around.

“His greatest asset is initiative. A lot of young people don't have that. I think it's something that is developed over time and Ben has lots of initiative,” said Chemistry teacher Jesse Barton.
 
“I'm involved in the Science Olympiad competition around here and pretty much all over the nation and last year I got to be in the team's contest, it's a math contest, and Science Club, so mostly science and math related stuff,” said Filkins.

He's a science and math whiz, so it's no surprise that his smarts are taking him places.

“I plan to go to St. Louis College of Pharmacy and hopefully start a pharmacy after I get out,” said Filkins.

Not only does Ben excel at his regular studies, he goes above and beyond the call of duty.

“He works for me in the mornings, sets up labs, breaks down labs. I can't remember the last time I've had to actually tell him what do to, he just dives right in,” said Barton.

Even though Ben spends a lot of time behind his Chemistry goggles, he still finds time for fun.

“I like baseball. I like to watch a lot and I play some, not for a team but just for fun,” said Filkins.