I have a disciplinary violation. Am I not going to get into college?

Nothing strikes panic into the heart of a college applicant (and their parents) than figuring out how to deal with a disciplinary infraction on a college application. But don’t worry: it’s absolutely not the end of the world—and yes, you are still going to get into college.

Here are a few steps to take if you’re in that situation:

Meet with your guidance counselor and ask if he is going to include information about the infraction in his counselor recommendation. If it’s a small issue, there’s a chance that he may not even be planning to disclose it. Detentions are highly unlikely to be reported, and even some in-school suspensions may not be included. But if you received an out-of-school suspension, you should assume that the counselor will address it. Still, each school has different policies, so the first step is to meet with your guidance counselor and discuss the issue in an open and honest way.

If the infraction is going to be reported, you will have a chance to address it on your application. Typically, each college will ask a question about your disciplinary history. This appears in the school-specific “My Colleges” tab.

For example, University of Notre Dame addresses disciplinary history this way: “Have you ever been found responsible for a disciplinary violation at any educational institution you have attended from the 9th grade (or the international equivalent) forward, whether related to academic misconduct or behavioral misconduct, that resulted in a disciplinary action? These actions could include, but are not limited to: probation, suspension, removal, dismissal, or expulsion from the institution.”

If you answer “yes” you will be given space to explain the violation. This is an excellent opportunity for you to acknowledge and own your mistake—and, most importantly, highlight the ways you have grown from the experience.

Over the years, I have had multiple students need to write this disciplinary history essay. They’ve gotten caught vaping in the bathroom, busted for showing up drunk to a school dance, or cheating on a test. The truth is that teenagers sometimes just make really bad choices. Admissions officers understand that. Let me reiterate: it’s not the end of the world.

Instead of panicking about a stupid decision from 10th grade, look at the disciplinary history essay as an opportunity to share your voice and hard-earned wisdom. Writing a thoughtful, vulnerable, honest essay about mistakes you’ve made and how you’ve grown from them can ultimately be an asset on your application.

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