Genymphas Higgs, 18, is the first Grand Bahamian to receive the All-Merit Scholarship.

Higgs, scoring an impressive 2210 on his SAT's and seven A's on the BDCSE's this year, has always been looked at by administrators as an intelligent young person. He even managed to really wow his parents by being honored as valedictorian of his graduating class of Bahamas Catholic High School in June.

Higgs has always loved biology and had some interest in engineering. when he began to mix these two interests he peaked an interest towards developing and enhancing agriculture.

He he plans on making his home Bahamas the first site for experimentation. By using bioengineering, Higgs says he can create crop seeds that could be disease and pest-resistant. Also, by modifying them the seeds could adapt and grow in sparse soil conditions.

Such work can allow the Bahamas to become more self-dependent with food and increase exports in produce to new markets. Higgs is very much looking forward to doing this but says it could take up to 10-15 years.

When asked if he feels pressure to succeed, he simply answered that his best isn't always reaching success, but knowing at the end of the day that he's tried his best. Higgs will be attending Pennsylvania University in September.