Let’s face it; flippin’ patties at Wonderburger or mopping floors at the mall are good ways to fund your savings account, but you’re probably looking for something a little more challenging after high school graduation. Maybe you know you want to go to college, but do you know what career you’d like to pursue? Are you aware of what skills and spiritual gifts God has given you?
“One of the most important decisions to be made in the next few years will focus on a life’s work — an occupation —or a skill you hope to develop,” Dr. James Dobson says to teens in his book Life on the Edge. “That choice is often extremely difficult.”
That’s where The Call comes in.
The Call is a detailed assessment test that allows you to match your spiritual gifts and abilities with numerous career options that fit your personality. But don’t take our word for it. Listen in on a conversation we had with 20-something Leora Gardner who has taken The Call:
Breakaway: How do teens benefit from The Call?
Leora: When I was in high school, I chose a college based solely on cost and location. My choice had little to do with what I might actually enjoy or be good at. Had I taken The Call in high school, I would have felt more informed about the career decisions I was making because the analysis offers insight that is easy to understand and apply.
Explain the process of taking The Call.
It’s an online assessment test that takes about one hour to complete. The questions are focused on three areas: math, reasoning and preferences. For instance, you may be asked if you prefer to work outside or in an office setting. You’re also asked questions such as “Do you like to debate spiritual issues with people or are you more comfortable in a less confrontational setting?” Certain sections require introspection and self-evaluation in a way I had never experienced. After you finish, the detailed results are e-mailed to you. They include a description of your spiritual gifts and a list of career options that you would excel at. You’re also given suggestions on how to use the results with a school counselor.
What is your overall impression of The Call?
Although I have taken other assessments, this is the first one that included a spiritual component. It gave me a well-rounded perspective on different career possibilities. Even with the $80 test fee, The Call was a wise investment for me. I think it can help keep a teen from wasting time and money pursuing a career not suited to her gifts. 
Sound interesting? Check it out with your parents or take the test at www.focusonyourchild.com/thecall.
