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An ophthalmic assistant and researcher at Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates and an ophthalmic technician at Charlotte Optometric Clinic, Donnie Rhett Koonce holds a master’s degree in biomedical science from Wake Forest University. Donnie Rhett Koonce has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.
Earning the rank of Eagle Scout requires a significant amount of work and perseverance. Teens must earn 21 merit badges and serve at least six months in a leadership position, attend a Scoutmaster conference, propose and carry out a service project, and pass a board of review. As of 2018, only 6.5 percent of all Boy Scouts who were eligible earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
Those who earn the rank reap hefty benefits. When applying to colleges, admissions teams recognize the Eagle Scout rank and what it means. While the rank does not make up for bad grades, it does give applicants an advantage over others.
Young men who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout have access to additional scholarships and may enter the armed forces at a higher rank and pay grade. Eagle Scouts also have an advantage when applying for civilian jobs.
