Ep 2. Aptitude Test/Oskar Gets A Job
- TVY7
- October 14, 1998
- 23 min
-
7.0 (135)
Arnold and his classmates at PS 118 are gearing up for their first official aptitude test, which will measure their skill sets and help them decide what they want to be when they grow up. Arnold is nervous about the test, especially since his friend Gerald seems to have it all figured out.
Meanwhile, Oskar Kokoshka, the lazy and unemployed tenant who lives in Arnold's boarding house, is feeling the pressure to find a job and start contributing to society. His wife Suzie is fed up with his laziness and threatens to leave him if he doesn't start bringing in some money.
As Arnold and Gerald navigate the aptitude test, they each discover surprising talents and passions that they never knew they had. Arnold is surprised to find that he enjoys cooking and is a natural leader, while Gerald discovers a talent for storytelling and journalism.
Meanwhile, Oskar's attempts to find a job are met with failure after failure. He bungles interviews and is turned down for even the most menial jobs. Just when he's about to give up hope, a chance encounter with a sidewalk musician inspires him to start playing the accordion on the street for extra cash.
As both storylines come to a head, Arnold and Gerald must decide whether to pursue their newfound talents or stick to their original career plans. Oskar, on the other hand, must prove to Suzie that he's capable of contributing to their household and learn to take pride in his work, no matter how humble.
In the end, the aptitude test and Oskar's job search both lead to important life lessons for all involved. Arnold and Gerald learn that it's okay to change one's mind about future plans, and that following a passion can lead to unexpected success. Oskar learns that hard work is its own reward, and that taking pride in one's work can lead to personal fulfillment and even financial stability.
Overall, "Aptitude Test/Oskar Gets A Job" is a heartwarming episode about discovering one's strengths and finding one's place in the world, no matter how old or young one is. Fans of the show's quirky characters and gentle humor will enjoy this episode, which combines some of the show's trademark silliness with more serious messages about self-discovery and perseverance.