Previous Expulsion and Grad School Admission

Graduate School
1

<p>Back Story:</p>

<p>University A: I had a low GPA ~ 3.0 goofed off a lot and eventually got expelled for a prank I pulled on another student (Nothing physically damaging just a prank). I managed to transfer to another university the next semester.</p>

<p>University B: (Sophomore year-until graduation 2013) I currently attend a large state university in the midwest. We are known for our strength in sciences and engineering. </p>

<p>GPA: Overall: 3.75 Major: ~ 3.8-9 I have so far one year of research experience and continuing. Scored a HHMI internship this summer. Student editor for an university undergraduate peer reviewed academic journal. I know how to code etc. etc.</p>

<p>So I learned that when I apply to graduate schools next semester they will require me to submit transcripts from ALL postsecondary schools. In addition, I learned that University A will put expulsion on my transcript. </p>

<p>I really want to attend a very good graduate program. I have friends with current credentials like mine and they managed to get into top ranked programs. </p>

<p>What are my chances? Should I include a letter in my application explaining that the incident was a meer prank and I matured a lot since then? My record is obviously evident. I'm just worried.</p>

<p>Thanks a lot.</p>

2

<p>Sounds like instead of simply brushing it off as a mere prank, you should talk about it apologetically and convince the schools you apply to that you understand what you did was wrong, and that you are sorry about it, and would never let it happen again. Describe your prank clearly and honestly, and if it really was a mere prank, they’ll see that it’s nothing to worry about, and will see that you are reflective on your mistakes and are able to rebound from them.</p>

3

<p>Why even mention it? You are a strong student and your student record speaks for itself.</p>

4

<p>Because it’s going to show up on his transcript, and in some cases it is better to explain than to allow the adcom to wonder why he got expelled.</p>

<p>Most applications allow you to explain any circumstances in additional space. Talk to professors you trust about it, and ask them for help on proofreading and properly wording this statement. It won’t completely torpedo your chances as long as you word it carefully - explain that you realize how it was a childish prank and basically a part of the things you used to do at 18, but you are more mature now and have learned a lesson from it.</p>