High School Suspension?

Hi, everyone! Recently, I have been stressing out about the college admissions process. I am an incoming senior with a 2180 SAT, 33 ACT, and 760 U.S. History subject test. By the end of high school, I will have completed 9 AP Courses and I have about a 3.95 unweighted GPA. Within the last 3 weeks of my Junior year, I was suspended with two others for “disseminating information” about our AP Chemistry final (2 weeks after the AP Exam). Basically, one person found the test online and sent me the link, I sent it to a couple other people. Now, I have a one-day suspension on my record and from what I’ve read so far, my chances are destroyed for my top-choice schools (WashU, Georgetown, USC). I know what I did was wrong, so I don’t need the lecture about how I shouldn’t have done it. My main question is… does anyone know others with minor suspensions that have gotten into top-tier schools? I’m just trying to find stories for reassurance so I know it’s still possible to get into these colleges. Thank you in advance for your help!

Yes, I’ve known students with suspension who have been admitted to top-tier schools. The problem is that it’s unpredictable; there’s no real way to know how individual colleges will respond to disciplinary issues. I’ve always suspected that the SSR is the deciding factor to some degree, but that’s just a hunch. @renojack

The problem will be the reason for the suspension. Being suspended for a harmless prank might be overlooked. Academic dishonesty will probably be cause for concern. I think your letters of recommendation will be of great value if the teachers can share that you have learned from your past bad judgement.

Do not call this a mistake when you self report it on your application. You’d be better off calling it a lapse in judgment.

@marvin100 @KKmama Thank you both. I’ve already drafted my self report and I am hoping it will help. I’ve taken a very direct approach by claiming full responsibility for my actions and explained the situation very clearly. I tried not to be too cliche by saying “it will never happen again” or focusing too much on my remorse because I’m not too sure how much colleges want to hear the student say sorry. I also really think my rec letters will help, I’ve got some good teachers in my school who will certainly vouch for my character.

Sounds like you’re responding as well as you can, @renojack . Good luck, and I hope this has been a learning experience if nothing else.