<p>I’ll be applying to transfer to various schools (UCs, primarily) in the fall, and I’m starting to think of my essays. I used to serve on the staff of an elected official representing some 2 million constituents. He came under investigation by a grand jury and district attorney, and I resigned as an act of conscience as soon as I learned of the investigations. I’ve been interviewed multiple times, including by district attorney and civil investigators. I’ve testified under oath before a grand jury. </p>
<p>The elected official has now resigned, and he and four former staff members have been charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors. Another member of the staff and myself have never been targeted by the investigation, much less charged with anything. He and I were always viewed as the only decent staff members in the office.</p>
<p>The few media stories that mention me by name are neutral to positive, setting aside guilt by association. One published story describes an instance where I refused to do something that was borderline unethical.</p>
<p>Should this experience be used in application essays?</p>
<p>On the one hand, it shows I have more life and professional experience than a lot of applicants. Very few have had their names dragged through the mud, even though they have done nothing wrong. On the other hand, there is the guilt by association issue.</p>
<p>The question is, is it better to be unique in a way that may have a negative connotation, or is it better to try and blend in with the crowd? Or, should I instead just focus on my professional experience–going on-record with media, developing press strategy and writing press releases, etc–ignoring the questionable aspects of my employment history?</p>