For context:I ended up being suspended for 2.5 years as a result of the Title IX procedures for irresponsible actions that I committed 5-6 years ago. I did end up transferring into another institution and attaining my bachelor’s degree. I’m at a point where I am considering pursuing a post-graduate degree, over a year and a half from when my suspension from my prior academic instution ended.
I recently got into a heated argument with family members in regards to how to proceed for my post graduate applications, and ultimately feel that there are two options left ahead of me:
My family insists that since I ended up graduating from another instution that I ought to just brush it under the rug and act like it didn’t happen,ignoring the questions in the application since they believ that colleges won’t follow back up or do any further due diligence (not sure how correct this is). I don’t like this option, chiefly due to being a goody two shoes that hates not doing things by the book,moreso, I feel that it simply undermines the growth that I have made since then and ultimately being able to acknowledge my mistakes instead of hiding them.
My option is just being open and honest about what happened and how I have grown since then. Ultimately I feel that it’s simply the right thing to do and I owe it to playing fair since I did so before and was able to get my bachelor’s degree after that second chance (albeit at a far less prestigious university)
Ultimately, I just keep hearing that I’ll never get in to a respected University, regardless of any perceived improvements I have made, the fact that I’ve never had any subsequent disciplinary issues (in my second college or in the workplace), or the fact that my suspension has already been lifted for 1.5+ years now.
Ultimately, I feel that I’m just looking for reaffirmation that taking the high road is the way to go and that I’m not a moron for doing so.
Also, in regards to the University that suspended me, I did write a reflection letter some time ago, but if there’s any good practices, suggestions, or advice on contacting them regarding this I’m happy to oblige.
Your family presumes that any post-graduate programs will not notice omissions or your entire history at all colleges. They will. It’s a question of “when,” not “if.”
You seem to have grown in recent years. That is what you want to show. Good luck.
A 2.5 year suspension must have been the consequence of serious improper actions. Broad based advice may be inappropriate in your case. Did the wrongful actions include any act or acts of violence or of threatening violence ? If so, you need to discuss this with an experienced college counselor or attorney with whom you share the particulars of the situation.
Another factor that may come into play is whether or not you plan to reside on campus.
In short, tough to offer advice without more specifics.
P.S. Your post focuses on time rather than on reform/personal growth. Time alone is unlikely to clear your record, but cannot say with certainty as the offending actions are unknown to us.
A 2.5 year suspension seems to have been designed to get you off campus and out of that particular school. A lengthy suspension avoids possible litigation over expulsion, but might be the equivalent if reapplication would be required for you to return to your original school.
P.S. Another poster privately made a spot-on observation regarding this situation: Suggested that the length of the suspension–2.5 years–might be the time necessary for one (possible victim) to finish his/her degree.This should assure that the two have no further on-campus contact. Makes sense to me–although it is just speculation.