I’m looking for some insight here on how suspensions will affect me 5 years later. I’m an active duty Marine, part-time student and I will be getting out of the service somewhat soon (honorably) and transferring to finish undergrad. I’m not going to sugarcoat, I got in some decent mischief in high school. Nothing crazy though, no law enforcement involvement, drugs or alcohol incidents. But I had one physical altercation that was in school suspension and I think maybe one or two more one day suspension for general disobedience. I have had no behavior issues in the military (imagine that). Believe it or not, my admin usually had my back and did the best they could. I joined the Marine Corps after graduating early when I was a senior. Now I’m applying to some pretty good schools. Given that all of these incidents occurred 5+ years ago, will this affect me? I think all college apps make you select yes or no if you’ve had any suspensions. I don’t feel right about clicking no just because it was a while ago. I’m looking for some honest answers here because I am kind of nervous about this. Thanks
You cannot click no because you are signing an affirmation that you have been truthful. Be honest about it and explain it, pointing out that there were no discipline problems in the military. Ad coms will take that into account.
Thank you. I didn’t mean to seem like I intend to click no, my bad. What I want to know is are there top tier schools that are not going to be understanding about something like that? It’s kind of a weird situation compared to most because these incidences were 5+ years ago
You’ll be fine. You are a veteran and a Marine. Thank you for your service.
I think you will have a compelling story and everyone likes a comeback!
Apply widely and don’t get caught up in prestige hunting. You’ve already graduated from the most exclusive club, Semper Fi.
If I was a college, I would want to admit students who would not “get into mischief”.
If I saw your background, I would see a student who had some issues in HS, then probably realized they needed to take another path and got “squared away” in the military. You will be honorably discharged, so they will see a veteran who is ready to learn.
As they say, be truthful but I do not see any issues.
Be honest. I do not think that there will be any concern about your pre-US Marine behavior 5 years ago–especially for “general disobedience” as the US Marines have a way of correcting such behavior.
Just stress that you have grown & matured over the last 5 years.
You’ve got a story of growing up and maturing that’ll play with admins. Your clean record will support it, so don’t worry too much.
I agree with everyone else. Be truthful. Tell them and show them you’ve grown up. Many colleges feel veterans provide some much needed diversity and real life experiences.