The ASVAB or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is an aptitude test that measures an individual strength in verbal, math, science and technical skills. The test helps people discover what they are interested in and what they are most skilled in.
The test consists of eight areas: general science, arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, mathematic knowledge, electronic information, auto and shop information, and mechanical comprehension. These categories help determine what career field the student would be best suited for based on his or her abilities.
After taking the test, the instructor has the students take a survey that asks questions about what their likes and dislikes are. Then based on their answers, they will review one of the six categories. If they are more practical, then they may be considered realistic, like to study and read, so then they are “investigative.” There are also groups that are “artistic,” “conventional,” “social,” and if they like to influence and direct others, then they would be categorized under “enterprising.” After finding which category they fit into best, they will be able to find military-based jobs that are specific for them based on their test results and interests.
Student Emily Richford ‘21 said, “I think the test is important to take because you can learn something about yourself and what you’re good at, which can help you decide on a career path,” after being asked why students should take it. She also added why she was taking the test by stating that "I can see options for jobs I’ve never heard of before that might be interesting to me.”
“The ASVAB is a great test for sophomores, juniors, and seniors and not just military-interested students,” says 1st Maj. Joe Williams, Senior Army Instructor for the JROTC. Many see the ASVAB as only a test for people thinking about a career path in the military, but it is inclusive of all students and can help set students on the pathway that would be best for them.
The next ASVAB testing day will be Feb. 3. Even for students not sure about their career, the test is a great step in the right direction to influencing a student's decision on the job that is most beneficial and meaningful.
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