2.3: VIA Character Strengths

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Graciela Martinez and Elizabeth Shaker
College of the Canyons

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We all have strengths and weaknesses and that is what makes us different and unique. Oftentimes it is easier to focus on weaknesses and in doing so strengths get neglected.

During counseling appointments with undeclared students, the counselor will generally start by asking if the student has any career ideas in mind. We oftentimes get responses such as, “Well, definitely nothing related to math and science, those are not my strong areas.” It is important to recognize our weaknesses; however, we do not want to neglect our strengths. The VIA Institute on Character has developed a FREE VIA Survey Character Strengths assessment you will complete. This assessment will rank your character strengths, which you can use to help explore career options, problem solve, improve relationships and enhance your overall well-being.

The VIA Institute on Character

The mission statement of the Via Institute on Character states:

“The VIA Institute on Character is a non-profit organization, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, dedicated to bringing the science of character strengths to the world through supporting research, creating validating surveys of character, and developing practical tools for individuals and practitioners”.

Take time to explore their website and learn more about the character strengths.

View the YouTube Video “The Science of Character” for an introduction to the VIA Character Strengths.

A Screenshot of "The Science of Character" Video — Figure 2.4 – Watch “The Science of Character” by the VIA Institute (link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdQRECe37K0&feature=youtu.be).

After viewing the YouTube video clip introducing “The Science of Character,” go onto the VIA Institute on Character website and take the Free Character Strengths Survey online at: https://www.viacharacter.org/survey/account/register.

What were your top five character strengths generated from your report? Record your results:

Do you agree or disagree with these results? Explain why you agree or disagree and give examples from your life experiences at work, school, or home to support each character strength.

Keep your character strengths in mind as you research career options in unit 3. Learn to put your strengths to work for you.