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The journey to becoming an Eagle Scout is marked by perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to serving the community. FCS is proud to announce it has two Eagle Scouts among its students, Neil Makur and Shanmukh Prabhala.

Shanmukh’s Project

Recent graduate Shanmukh embarked on his scouting journey six years ago. His path to Eagle Scout was marked by gradual progress, with the rank of Life Scout attained over two years prior to his Eagle Scout project.

His Eagle Scout project involved a landscaping initiative for Olivera Elementary, where he had spent his elementary years. The project aimed to revitalize a plot of land on the school grounds, transforming it into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area for children to play.

The undertaking was no small feat. Shanmukh and his team spent five days leveling the ground, removing approximately three tons of clay soil. The challenging terrain required innovative solutions, including the use of specialized equipment such as a jackhammer and a tiller to break through the clay. Despite the physical demands, Shanmukh remained undeterred, showcasing resilience and determination throughout the project.

As the leader of the project, Shanmukh oversaw every aspect, from securing materials to coordinating workdays and managing timelines. His leadership skills were put to the test as he navigated challenges and motivated his team to stay focused on the end goal.

Reflecting on his journey, Shanmukh highlighted the personal growth he experienced, particularly in decision-making and responsibility. He emphasized the importance of being adaptable and thinking on one's feet, qualities that proved invaluable in leading a successful Eagle Scout project.

When asked about advice for aspiring Eagle Scouts, Shanmukh shared a nuanced perspective. While acknowledging the significance of the rank, he emphasized the importance of enjoying the scouting journey itself, rather than viewing it as a checklist. For Shanmukh, the joy was in the experiences gained along the way, with the Eagle Scout rank serving as a culmination rather than the sole objective.

Neil’s Project

Neil’s journey to Eagle Scout was a testament to his commitment to community service and leadership. Having been involved in scouting since fifth grade, Neil’s recent achievement of the Eagle Scout rank marked a significant milestone in his scouting career.

For his Eagle Scout project, Neil undertook the task of constructing a mobile cabinet for Angel Aid, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting children affected by abuse and neglect. The project aimed to provide additional storage space for food donations, facilitating the organization's efforts in serving the community more effectively.

One of the most significant challenges Neil faced was balancing leadership with maintaining team morale. Despite encountering resistance from some team members more interested in socializing than working, Neil remained steadfast in his commitment to the project's success.

Reflecting on his journey, Neil highlighted the invaluable lessons in project management and problem-solving he gained throughout the process. The experience honed his organizational skills and reinforced the importance of thorough planning and preparation in executing complex tasks.

Looking ahead, Neil expressed a desire to continue his involvement in scouting, albeit acknowledging the logistical challenges posed by his impending college education. Nevertheless, his passion for community service and leadership remains unwavering, indicating a bright future ahead in both scouting and beyond.

Shanmukh and Neil’s journeys offer valuable insights into the transformative power of scouting and the pursuit of the Eagle Scout rank. We are so proud of you both!