<p>So I'm 20 years old as of January of 2014. In like March of 2012 during spring break I made like an impulsive decision to swipe a pair of headphones at a Target and got busted. Stupid right??? -___- Long story short I was charged with a misdemeanor for petty theft. The judge saw that I was a pre-med bio major and told me that I didn't even belong there. I got adjudication withheld for the sentence. It was the first time I'd ever been in trouble with the law and ever since then I've never ventured that close to the law again deciding it's just not worth it. I go to HCC in tampa, the local community college. and have applied to USF tampa for the spring of 2015. I've completed the app, submitted the $30 for the app fee, and sent in transcripts which are allll early as heck considering the app deadline for spring 2015 is October 1st. But i marked yes on the app when it asked if i had been convicted of anything even if adjudication was withheld and they're making me fill out a conduct form and all, accompanied by official documents from the courthouse because its standard for anything but no on that section. I've been racking my brain thinking about if this stupid decision 2 and a half years ago will affect my acceptance into USF. I've been doing so well and It would kill me if they denied my upper level transfer acceptance for something like that. What do colleges usually do for this. Is it an automatic no or what? What are my chances? Anyone with similar situations? I see some online posts saying that people just put no when apps ask about background even if they have had some run ins. I just thought it'd be better to be honest. I have nothing to hide. and obviously I'm being diligent about my handling my future. And keep in my mind that any students who transfer from HCC with an AA degree are guaranteed admission to USF, but it still is making me a little anxious because of all the emphasis on criminal records. If what I have can even be called a 'record'. Any feedback CC? </p>
<p>It’s not an automatic no (otherwise there wouldn’t be a football team there :). They’ll look at how bad the act was, how long ago it took place, what you’ve done since, and what you say you’ve learned from it.</p>
<p>Well from that I’d say I’m in pretty good shape, but the idea of them looking at any blemishes on my record just freaks me out. I’ve worked hard to get into this school, and I’d hate to see this lower my chances when all my other ducks are literally in a row while rowing a rowboat on a tightrope. </p>
<p>Cheap, unsubstantiated shot about USF’s football team Erin’s Dad. Sorry, but USF’s football team isn’t a band of criminals.</p>
<p>@lizard: I think Erin’s Dad was kidding!</p>
<p>@VSJ0120: Adjudication Withheld was with with or without prejudice? Also did you have an attorney and did he/she explain if there is a process within FL justice system where your record and be expunged or cleared? </p>
<p>Is there an in-person interview involved? If so, from what I am reading thus far, I can’t see why they would deny admittance. If you’ve kept your nose clean and have shown academic prowess - it should look fine. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
How did this situation turn out for you?