Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 1/6/2011

Question
I am currently working with my recruiter in Arizona looking to join the army. However I took the practice ASVAB in their office and scored a 68. Math murdered me. My recruiter didn't seem like it was that big of a deal and has been pushing to get me down to MEPS and sign the paper not worrying about any further study. I was wondering if I was being unreasonable in wanting to bone up on my math skills before taking the test that determines which MOS I qualify for or if I should stop worrying about it.

I want to become an EOD and knowing what score I needed to hit to get that would be great as well.

Thank you for your time

Seth

Answer
I'm sure you've already seen this but here's the link to the Army's description of the EOD (89D):

http://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/browse-career-and-job-categories/intellig...

Just go in and tell your recruiter that you want that job and that you won't sign any paperwork that has you in a job that isn't 89D.  Tell him you want to ensure you're successful and that if he thinks you may not get it based on your current practice scores it is in both of your interests to wait and study a bit. You're not being unreasonable at all and you should take all the time you need to be comfortable.  Also, stick to your guns.  If you're sold on EOD, then ensure you keep telling people that and don't sign any contracts that say anything but MOS 89D (EOD). Once they understand you're for real, they will work to help ensure you are successful.