"Campus Safety" section of applications

[sammyh88]

This addresses many legal for instance, arrest/felony/misdemeanor records as well as disciplinary actions received from former universities. I would like to start out by saying I have not been arrested. I attended a university in Florida that enforced a very strict zero-tolerance policy in regards to alcohol/substance abuse. During my freshman year, I involved myself in a bad decision to host a party with my roommates at our apartment. There were various activities that occurred deemed by the school as a breach of student conduct, as police arrived later that night. I had a few beers but did not participate in any other activities, but as it was my dwelling, was nicked for a few of the aforementioned activities, and suspended for two semesters. I have a good GMAT score, solid GPA, and decent extracurricular participation, but the question below is particularly worrisome to me, as I believe admissions councils will strongly consider it to be indicative of my personal character:

"Have you ever been found responsible for a disciplinary violation at any educational institution you have attended from 9th grade (or the international equivalent) forward, whether related to academic misconduct or behavioral misconduct, that resulted in your probation, suspension, removal, dismissal, or expulsion from the institution? If you answered "yes" to the question above, please use the space below to explain."

Any suggestions would be very helpful. Thanks.

-Sammy

[yigaloran]

The admissions committees are aware that their applicants may have lapsed in to questionable behavior sometime in their past. It's a fair question and you are given the chance to explain the incident. Since this happened in your freshman year, it is well behind you. I would be brief but honest about your participation, keep it dry and avoid being overly remorseful.
If everything else about your application is up to a high standard and you are able to provide proficient work experience and solid references, it shouldn't affect your chances and it certainly shouldn't stop you from applying to the schools of your choice. Everyone's entitled to one mistake and freshman year is usually when they happen.

[CriticalSquareMBA]

Hi Sammy,

Unfortunately, there is a very simple, and not ideal, answer to your question. You have to spell out the situation. You need to be honest about it but be smart as well. At the end of the day, you can't get around the fact that the school suspended you for two full semesters. That isn't done lightly and adcoms know that.

It is most assuredly a red flag on your application but how you address it and share information will be very important. You were young. You made a mistake. Make sure they understand you grew from it. Do not make any excuses.

Let me know if you have any specific questions,

Bhavik