This is done at a ceremony at the next troop meeting. The certificate for his new rank is later presented at a formal Court of Honor held every 3 months. The Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he overcomes each challenge. The Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a boy grow in self-reliance and the ability to help others.
Merit badges are a part of Scouting for two reasons.
First, they encourage the Scouts to increase their skill in things they like to do. Second, they challenge Scouts to try out new activities that may result in fresh interests or hobbies. One of these may even start him on the path to a career. Steven Spielberg, an Eagle Scout, got his career start with a Scouting merit badge. There are approximately 120 merit badges to choose from - anything from Camping to Pets, to Orienteering, to Photography, to Sailing, to Law, etc.