Life to Eagle: Board of Review

Almost there! Keep going!

Your Board of Review is the penultimate step in your progress toward Eagle Rank and it is often intimidating to Scouts, primarily because you have so little control over it. It is directed by the Chair of your committee, not by the Scout. They coordinate the date, location and time with all involved and they (in conjunction with your troop) choose the other board members. You just show up!

But some things are under your control and you would be wise to make sure you are doing all you can to ensure your success for this part of the advancement process:

Show up early! Be prompt. Do not keep your Board waiting.

Wear your full uniform: This includes whatever your troop considers to be “full”, which in our case is just from the waist up. This includes your merit badge sash and neckerchief with slid. Wear pants or nice jeans. NO SPORTS SHORTS! Clothes should be clean and neat and, for heaven’s sake, tuck in your shirt. :-) Basically, dress yourself in a way that would make your mother proud.

What to bring:

Your completed binder for your Eagle Project workbook. Dot all “i’s” and cross all “t’s”. You can use this to help you answer questions about your project’s planning, development and implementation.
A copy of your Ambition letter. That may be a topic of discussion.
A copy of your advancement records (from Troopmaster Web).
Your Scout handbook. Check to see if everything (for all ranks) are signed off. Check with your scoutmaster or assistant scoutmasters if you need help with this.
Your scout binder with all of your blue cards and records.

What to expect: All boards are different, so you really are walking in blind to a certain extent. But you can prepare yourself as much as possible, knowing that the following issues are highly likely to be part of your board.

Be prepared to recite and discuss the Scout Motto, Slogan, Law, Oath and Outdoor Code. For all of them, you stand, make the Scout sign, and recite them slowly and clearly. (Note: For the Scout Law, be ready to explain how you incorporate all factors of the law into your life, including “Reverent”).
Be prepared to discuss the planning, implementation and leadership you demonstrated during your Eagle project. How did you come to the decisions you made? How did you solve problems that arose? What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again? What do you think you did well in the project?
The Board of Review isn’t just about your project. It is about your experience in scouting in general (including Cub Scouts, if applicable), and how your experiences will carry you forward, shaping your plans for the future.

Most of all, remember that this isn’t a test. This is “review” and should become a discussion that you may actually find you enjoy. It is understandable if you are nervous and anxious. But if you have done the work to the best of your ability, this should be an opportunity for you to discuss and celebrate your accomplishment with the Board members.

At the conclusion of your Board, follow the direction of your Board of Review Chair carefully. Remember that you are not actually an Eagle Scout until you complete the process. You must walk into the Council office (wear your uniform) and drop off your signed application. DO NOT MAIL IT! Submit it in person. It is wise to make a copy of the application and/or take a picture of both sides of the form, just in case. Once National has reviewed and accepted your application, they will send your certificate and medal to the council office for you to pick up. That is when you have proof of your new Eagle status!

Don’t forget to take a picture with you and your board. This is a big moment for you. Enjoy it!