I had been harassed by this kid for months and had repeatedly ‘turned the other cheek’ and told him to cut it out. Finally, he gave me a smack in the hall and I decided to punch him in the stomach. I got a suspension. I know people might say I should have gone to a teacher first (I’ve heard that a lot), but I think most people understand that ‘telling on someone’ is the worst possible thing I could’ve done. Also, I want to learn to stand up for myself. Anyways, is this permanent on my record? I want to get into ivy league universities and if they know I had a suspension that might drastically reduce my chances of getting in.
Suspensions are on your record. Even if they are not, when you start filling out applications you and/or your GC will have to fill out a disciplinary history. They will ask you if you’ve been suspended and why. They give an additional information section to explain yourself, but I don’t know how much that will help you. Your GC will also have something similar where they can explain the situation. I would talk to the GC, explain your situation, and ask for advice.
Your suspension came for your actions, which are your responsibility, under your control. How do you expect a college that looks for your maturity and good judgment to react?
Talk to your GC. Keep your nose clean. Ivies don’t need excuses for poor judgment.
No, most if us don’t think getting adult support is the “worst possible thing.”
I am glad you stood up for yourself, but agree that this was not the ideal method.
My daughter had been harrassed by some people but talked to the administration and it was taken care of with no repercussions to her. Remember, bullies want you to think that “ratting out” is a bad thing because then they are free to bully you more. “Tattling” is only a bad thing if you are using it to get someone in trouble, not because of your mental health or safety.
Make sure to tell your Vice Principal all the occasions of harrassment and say that you realize that physical methods were not the way to go and ask what should you do in the future?