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Hello All. New to the forums and have a question. I am applying for this upcoming fall with a 3.61/158 at a top 10 catholic university. However, I have a few alcohol incidents on my record. I was cited at 17 for underage possession and consumption (expunged) by the state and have three (3) alcohol write ups from my undergraduate institution. ( Fresh, Soph and Senior Year). I was wondering how big of an effect this will have on my admissions chances at Cleveland State? Any help/input is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

What exactly are write ups? Were the police involved? Regarding your chances, you are probably okay, however I hope you have your alcohol consumption under control. Not to sound like a ________, but four alcohol related violations in so many years is a problem. Good luck to you.

For me, a write up is being caught by the RA (resident assistant) for drinking in the dorms the first two years and then the one this year was a public into by the university police. I have not been involved in any municipal court proceedings, it is all handled internally by the university and only shows up on my university record.

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hoos89 wrote:well first and foremost, if something has been expunged from your record, there is no need to mention it. the only way anyone could find that out is if you told them.

This is not true. Most schools tell you that you need to disclose even if expunged. The bar does know.

neeko wrote:

hoos89 wrote:well first and foremost, if something has been expunged from your record, there is no need to mention it. the only way anyone could find that out is if you told them.

This is not true. Most schools tell you that you need to disclose even if expunged. The bar does know.

If it is on your record, I would disclose. Especially 3 times.

Could be a problem. One offense will be overlooked rather easily. Two will raise a flag but can be moved past. Past that it's a pattern, and you should make sure to include a statement in the C + F section explaining why this is in the past and won't happen again, what you've learned, etc.

bobbyh1919 wrote:Could be a problem. One offense will be overlooked rather easily. Two will raise a flag but can be moved past. Past that it's a pattern, and you should make sure to include a statement in the C + F section explaining why this is in the past and won't happen again, what you've learned, etc.

This

So with a well written C and F statement as well as my numbers (plus strong letters of rec and law firm experience during undergrad) chances at CSU = ???

Your numbers are fine. Just depends on your addendum. Have you done anything to address your alcohol problem? A program? Counseling? When was the last time you were reprimanded?

NomNom wrote:Your numbers are fine. Just depends on your addendum. Have you done anything to address your alcohol problem? A program? Counseling? When was the last time you were reprimanded?

+1

Your biggest issue will be proving that this won't be a reoccurring problem.

Here is the statement I have attached to the end of my addendum (after the description of the events themselves):

In each of these instances, I have taken full responsibility for my actions and have completed each and every disciplinary requirement asked of me. While these incidents have been unfortunate, I have used each as an opportunity to learn and grow as both a student and a young man. These incidents have educated me on what it means to be held accountable for your actions as well as potential negative consequences for these actions. These incidents have made me aware that my actions have the potential to have a damaging impact on my academic career and pursuit of a career as an attorney. That being said, my latest incident has truly proven to be a wake up call. In light of this incident, I have taken a proactive approach in dealing with these disciplinary issues. I completed a day-long alcohol education class as well as have taken part in monthly check up sessions to ensure that this issue is under control. I remain confident that I will be able to put these incidents in the past and maximize my full potential as a law student.

Any feedback is appreciated.

Are the day long class and check ins mandatory? It sounds like it so you may want to elaborate on ways you are overcoming that arent forced.

day long class mandatory / check-ins voluntary, inserted voluntary before check-ins. other than that what do you think?

It sounds good.

If you have time (getting late in the cycle) I'd call all the schools and ask if they want "RA write-ups" included in c&f. I was in a similar situation and called all the admissions offices. Most will still want them, but I had 2 or 3 that don't require them. No sense in providing unnecessary information. Obviously campus PD and real PD stuff you'll probably have to disclose (unless they only want misdemeanors and felonies, which is all some schools care about). Every school/application/disclosure is different, so if you have a chance I'd do some research by contacting the school. It can only help.