How to Write an Eagle Scout Personal Statement

Requirement #6 of the Eagle Scout application asks you to write a personal statement. It reads: "Attach to this application a statement of your ambitions and life purpose and a listing of positions held in your religious institution, school, camp, community, or other organizations during which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include honors and awards received during this service." Of all the Eagle requirements, this is probably the least stressful. It's a chance for you to reflect on your accomplishments and put them to paper.

Things You'll Need

• Paper and pen or word processor Eagle Scout Rank Application

Instructions

Writing Tips

1. Type or print legibly. If you use a computer, don't forget to use spell check.

2. Use your own words. Write in a way that reflects your personality. Strive for a friendly, confident tone, not too stiff or too casual.

3. Have a parent, teacher or trusted friend read through your finished statement to check grammar, spelling and clarity.

Composing Your Statement

1. What are your ambitions through high school and beyond? Will you attend college? What career do you hope to pursue? What talents will you develop? Do you plan to start a family, open a business or give back to your community? Be specific. Think big. How do you want to change the world?
   Aim for about 500 words. This portion should be in essay form, organized into paragraphs. Focus on one main idea per paragraph. For example, discuss goals for personal development in one paragraph, career goals in the next. Include stories or personal experiences that have shaped your character and ambitions, but keep them brief and relevant.

2. List positions in which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include roles such as camp counselor, student-body officer, community volunteer, mentor or project leader. Don't worry about being modest. This is your chance to shine.
   This portion of your statement can be presented in bullet form. Limit each bullet point to the type of organization, the position held, responsibilities and length of service.

3. List any awards or honors received. According to www.eaglescout.org, honors aren't limited to medals and plaques. They can include a newspaper article, a letter of thanks or anything that made you feel special. Use bullet form. Stick to one or two sentences per bullet point.

Tips & Warnings

• Above all, your personal statement should be a reflection of who you are. These guidelines can help you organize your information, but the final length and format is up to you.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Boy Scouts of America
• National Eagle Scout Association