<p>I am applying to USC and have a misdemeanor for a dui that happened over the summer. I am currently finished with the dui classes, and do not drink or smoke anymore. I have basically turned my life around.. hence grad school for me. I am saddened that I must let USC know of this incident, which I'd like to put behind me. </p>
<p>What exactly should I do? I know I must let them know, but what is the best way to explain it to them? Shall I write an addendum? What are the guidelines and do you suggest anything else? Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>Most of the applications I filled out had a special section where they asked you if you’d ever been convicted of a crime or anything like that. You’re right to tell them because if you don’t they’ll find out anyway and it’ll hurt you more. Just emphasize the fact that you’ve turned your life around so they don’t reject you just based on that. I’m not really sure what they do about things like that.</p>
<p>Good lord, don’t add an addendum. Don’t even mention it on your SoP, for goodness’ sake.</p>
<p>There is a section on most applications that asks about previous convictions. Fill it out honestly. </p>
<p>No one on the admission committee will see this portion of your application. The only people who will see it are in the administrative office of the Graduate School. They will then pass it on to the DGS. This is confidential information, and the DGS is required by law to remove that portion of your application before passing it on to the departmental admissions committee.</p>
<p>I know this is an old thread but I’m in the same shoes as the OP and I just wanted to know if, professor x, you are absolutely certain of the information you posted?</p>