>>1834413Eagle scout + OA here, scouting is imo a necessary rite of passage for all young men. Sadly, a lack of interest in the outdoors has led to declining numbers, and a shifting of values by BSA to not go under.
As for my experience, it really helped me not only bond with boys my age, learn from the older scouts, and teach the younger scouts, it taught me many morals and values, such as the ones in the scout law, self sufficiency, toughening up in hard situations, among many others. Also the skills I learned through experiences and merit badges varied wildly, from camping and rifle shooting, to personal finance and patriotism, and help me both /out/ and in daily life today.
Pic related is a box of my eagle gear + my merit badges
