I started Scouts in 2018 as a Lion in Cub Scouts. What first pulled me in was the outdoors. I loved being outside, camping, exploring, and doing things that felt like real adventures. But when I crossed over into Boy Scouts, I realized it was a completely different experience. In Cub Scouts, most activities are planned for you. In Boy Scouts, you get to decide what you want to do with it and whether you want to do something. It’s teaching us independence and, like my mom always says, adulthood is all about being independent.

That freedom is one of the best parts. There are about 140 merit badges you can choose from, and you get to decide which ones you want to work on. You only need 21 to earn Eagle Scout, but if you earn more, you can push yourself even further and learn even more skills. For me, I already loved golfing, but earning the Golfing merit badge made me love it even more. It gave me the chance to spend more time practicing, learning the rules, and improving my skills, which made the sport even more enjoyable. I also earned the Citizenship in the World merit badge, which is required for Eagle Scout. As part of that, I interviewed a friend whose family is from India, and I learned a lot about their culture. It was interesting to see how different each region of India is and the different celebrations and traditions they have. If I hadn’t done that merit badge, I might not have learned as much from my friend’s family until I was older.

Scouting also gives you opportunities to try things you might not normally get to do. You can go white water rafting, try rock climbing,learn how to play chess,  and challenge yourself in new ways. These kinds of experiences teach you independence and confidence, and they’re also just really fun. I didn't think I like Chess, but I learned it from Scouting and I am almost done with that merit badge. 

Working toward Eagle Scout has also taught me a lot. The required merit badges, like camping and cooking, helped me learn real-life skills. I’ve learned how to plan meals, how to be more responsible for myself and my group, and how to work with other people. It also teaches you leadership, organization, and problem-solving, things that matter outside of Scouting too.

But here’s something important: you don’t have to aim for Eagle if that’s not your goal. You can join Scouts just for the adventures, the campouts, the friendships, and the chance to try new things. There’s no one “right” way to do Scouting. You can shape your experience based on what you enjoy most.

If you’re interested, I’d say just search for a troop near you and go to a meeting. Talk to the leaders and see what it’s like. The leaders in my troop, Troop 367, are amazing. They give their time and really care about each scout, which makes a big difference.

I think more kids my age should give Boy Scouts a try. It’s not just about badges or ranks. It’s about learning new things, spending time outside, making new friendships, becoming more independent, and discovering what you like to do. You get to choose your path, and that makes it worth it.

Adam French

Troop 367, Medway MA