<p>I am a high school senior. I have just gotten in-school suspension for drinking on a school trip in a country where I was legal. Every other student who went on the trip is also suspended for drinking, and the school is requiring that we all send letters to the colleges we have been accepted to/applied to. As I'm sure you can imagine, we are all extremely sorry and upset. The students on the trip are all really great kids and student leaders on campus. I have never been in trouble for anything for the past 3.5 years, and I can't believe I did this so close to graduation. I was wondering how much this would screw up my college chances? I am a very good student. The principal said she would write a letter to vouch for my character. I will also write a letter of apology and explain the situation to colleges.</p>
<p>I used to know a girl who graduated high school a year before I did. She was caught drinking in her town (where it was illegal), and she had to do the same thing. The university didn’t reject her because of that. She was always a very good student, and “senior fever” probably got a hold of her. Keep in mind that so many people do stupid things when they’re teenagers (myself included). Just explain what happened and say you’re sorry if you truly mean it. I don’t know how they will react, but I have a feeling that you will be okay. The letter from the principal will probably help too. The most important thing, in my opinion, is to learn from your mistakes.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>