<p>Alright, I was reading through the common apps and I found something that slightly frightens me:</p>
<p>For Counselor: "Has the applicant ever been found responsible for a disciplinary violation at your school from 9th grade forward...that resulted in the applicant's probation, suspension, removal, dismissal, or expulsion from your institution?"</p>
<p>Thing is that about two months ago I was invovled in a little scuffle (in which I didn't even get to throw any fists; I was pinned on the ground by that ******<em>), which *all</em> of our security guards said didn't matter and I would be clean as long as I didn't punch anyone. But then our idiot vice principal makes the asinine decision of suspending me for a day, under the pretense of "provocation" (I really shouldn't've signed that piece of paper... I still don't agree with it).</p>
<p>I'm wondering how much of an impact this will make? It was suspension for one day, because of a very minor issue. Is it possible that I can get this somehow erased off of my transcript? It just seems so minor, but everything and anything can and will be blown into larger proportions when details are left out (there is only a checkbox for Yes and No).</p>
<p>First, start by asking your guidance counselor about your high school's policy on reporting relatively minor disciplinary actions. Some schools only mention major disciplinary infractions, others report everything. Schools that do report these sorts of things usually also include a brief explanation in the counselor letter, and do not merely check "yes" or "no." </p>
<p>In terms of how it may affect you, that's partially in your hands. How you handle YOUR explanation on your applications will be looked at closely by colleges.If you take responsibility for your side of what happen (in other words don't just blame it solely on the *****), explain what you have learned or how you have changed from this incident, and make a convincing case that this will not happen again, that will go a long way to minimizing any negative perceptions. I wouldn't belabor the point or write a 1,000 word essay on what happened, but a mature explanation where you take some responsibility may help.</p>
<p>Again, I would suggest talking with your counselor first, and, if it will be reported, discussing how it will be described in the school report. I would also have your school counselor take a look at your written explanation before you send it, to make sure that you and the GC are on the same page in terms of placing blame, etc.</p>