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Testing to the next level

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Tori Schultz
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
Career Development Courses are mandatory for every Airmen to finish within the first 12 months of their time on station. In order to pass the end of course exam, you are required to score 65 percent or higher.

CDCs are part of an Airmen's upgrade training, which is needed to receive your five-skill level in the career field. CDCs are important to every Airman's success. They teach you the skills needed to progress in your career field and in the U.S Air Force.

The first day I received my CDCs was May 9, 2013. I was told I had one month to finish each volume, with a total of seven volumes. At first, I thought it would be easy because I joined the U.S. Air Force right out of high school and still had good study habits; however, it was more difficult than expected.

As I started to read through the first volume, it dawned on me that my CDCs were not like normal high school subjects. I knew they were about my job as a photojournalist, but the information didn't click for me like I wanted.

I became overwhelmed with all the new information needed to pass the EOC exam. Most of the information in certain volumes came easier to me than others because they were a refresher from what I learned in technical school and my day-to-day job duties.

In preparation for the test, I made flash cards and tested myself every day after work. I tried to relate the information to my everyday work life, along with asking questions to gain a better understanding on the topics I struggled with.

When I walked into the testing room, I felt confident that I had a good understanding of the material. I submitted my answers and passed my test.

Now I have a feeling of accomplishment and excitement. I no longer have to stress about passing or failing and I can continue my on the job training.

With my CDCs completed, I'm ready to finish my upgrade training and get my five-skill level because now I am able to apply the material learned and become more proficient as a photojournalist.