WOODBURY — As the midpoint of the school year approaches for upperclassmen, students are starting to discover interests for their lives after high school. College is not an option for everyone, which is why the school offers a chance for students to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery — commonly known as ASVAB. 

“The ASVAB is an aptitude test which measures abilities at the point of testing, but also helps predict future academic and occupational success,” said Kathy Green, College and Career Center counselor at Nonnewaug High School. 

The ASVAB was originally set for Feb. 2, but due to uncertainty of when school would be back in session, it was pushed to March 31. 

Jack Cronin, a 2020 Nonnewaug graduate, began his career with the United States Marines by taking the ASVAB as his first step.

“There are a lot of books sold such as the Dummies version, which I recommend,” Cronin said. “Just make sure you study before you take it and try your best.”

The ASVAB is scored on these categories: 

• General science
• Arithmetic reasoning
• Word knowledge
• Paragraph comprehension
• Mathematics knowledge
• Electronics information
• Auto and shop information
• Mechanical comprehension
• Assembling objects

The test can be taken by computer or on paper. Schools normally reserve a three-hour block for the test, as the paper one takes longer, but the computer version has an average completion time of 90 minutes.

This test is open to anyone. For those who aren’t completely sure the military is right for them, there is no harm in reaching out to a recruiter and leaving options open.

Those interested in taking the ASVAB can contact Kathy Green in the CCRC or email their guidance counselor to sign up.