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Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?
22

Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
Hello,

I will be graduating with my BSME in May of 2013. I plan on beginning my job search long before that, possibly as early as October. I'm going to be completely honest with any prospective employers, mostly because it's the right thing to do, but also due to the fact that a bit of verifiable dishonesty on an application can easily bite back.

In 2004 I was young, dumb and full of...bad ideas, I was convicted of misdemeanor criminal sexual abuse for having sexual relations with my high school sweetheart. I've kept a clean record since.

Years later, after getting my priorities straightened, I found out that I had a passion for machine development and decided to pursue an ME degree. Having never taken so much as an advanced level math class, chemistry or physics in high school and being awful in those subjects, I wound up needing close to 2 years worth of various science prerequisites before even setting foot into a Calc 1 class.

I'll most likely graduate with a 2.8 GPA and (God willing) some intern experience, although it's not much - I've really worked hard to get this far. At this point I desire nothing more than to live a normal, professional life.

Any helpful input would be really appreciated.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Being harsh but realistic I'd be concerned that many folks are likely to see a conviction for a sex crime and not look much further into any mitigating details.

Plus, while it's not far off what I got, many folks won't be impressed with a 2.8 GPA.

So, you have 2 things going against you however, that certainly doesn't mean you can't succeed just that it will be harder, which it sounds like you're already used to.

If you're willing/able to be flexible in where you work, what field you work in etc. that will help compensate some.

There are plenty of generic threads about finding first jobs and difficulty so doing - take a look.

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
Thank you Kenat,

Of course I expect the entire landing-a-job-phase to be difficult, but not impossible. I absolutely plan on being flexible, I'm at least aiming to find something that is 'some-what' related to what I've studied. Things like traveling far, working for low pay and in miserable conditions are all things I'm very well accustomed to, at least I'd imagine that it would be a few steps up from all the years of retail and pink-collar work I've.

Right now I'm trying my best to secure an internship and pull my grades up a bit. I'm also considering a minor in Computer Science in hopes that a strong background in that field could help me stand out from other applicants. However, I'd end up pushing my graduation date further back to at least December of 2013 even if I take summers, but on the plus side I might get to ride out the rough economy for a little bit longer. Should I do it?

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Regarding the criminal conviction, the key would be to look for opportunities where you will get consideration before you have to disclose that information. I am not sure if online applications ask this, but if they do, perhaps look for smaller companies that still take applications via email. My experience has been that you do have to disclose this in the job application form when you show up for an on-site interview, but the hiring manager may not look at the form until after the interview. If you have made an excellent impression, they may look past the conviction.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

I know the USA which is where I kinda guess you are from the context of you post, the under age sex laws are a lot tougher than most of the rest of the developed world. Certainly here it is only a crime if there is undue coercion or if one partner is an adult and the other is a child. There is no legal problem if there is no great age difference.

If you where just two high school kids making out, I guess quite a few must think, there for the grace of god go I, but also like I say, the USA seems a bit harder on this than just about anywhere else.

Regards
Pat
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Forgiving people will understand. Unforgiving people won't and you don't want to work for them anyway.

Two of my friends have similar deals. However, it was used against them because they did not disclose their youthful problems. They didn't think information would surface because they were such old offenses.

All the best in your efforts!

Pamela K. Quillin, P.E.
Quillin Engineering, LLC

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

lacajun, it's not just judgmental a$$holes.

Reality is that there are likely to be numerous candidates applying for any position at the moment, especially one suitable for a fresh grad.

In this situation fairly blunt tools often get used to trim the number of applicants to be considered more closely. Things like criminal convictions and low GPA are among these rather blunt tools.

If you have say 50 applicants, and one of them has what at face value may appear to be a fairly serious and unpleasant criminal conviction, are you going to spend the time to get to the bottom of it or just use it as an excuse to down select & round file it?

It may be harsh, it may be unfair, but it's probably reality.

(Sorry OP I don't mean to be like one of Job's buddies here.)

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

KENAT, I suspect you are correct and most will toss it. All he needs is one... I'm confident there is one for him.

Pamela K. Quillin, P.E.
Quillin Engineering, LLC

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

I'm not sure this is a big of a deal as you make it out to be. At what point in the interview process will it come up? You certainly wouldn't put it on your resume. I'm not sure when you fill out the application (before or after the interview) or if it has a spot on it for misdemeanor criminal convictions.
But if you've got that far, they must see something in you. If you tell them the truth, they might shut you down. But I bet most employers will evaluate it in the totality of the situation and go from there. If they already feel you're sketchy, this will confirm their feeling and you won't get the job. But it's also possible that they understand you've made a mistake, moved on and give you a chance.
As far as getting a P.E., that's another manner.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

2
I would probably hire you (if I were in the hiring position). You like change, have 'life experiences', and got educated.
I have met a lot of lazy's these days that want a job, but don't want to work.

Chris
SolidWorks 11
ctopher's home
SolidWorks Legion

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
I want to thank everyone who has replied so far, I greatly appreciate all of your input. I'm also finding out how incredibly helpful this forum is.

I don't know how much of an impact it'll have in mechanical, but I also plan on taking the FE in April, before I graduate.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Were you under 18 when the misdemeanor occured? If so, you should readily be able to expunge your record. In any event, consult with a lawyer. If a background check cannot reveal the conviction, don't disclose it to prospective employers.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Here's a heads up. Don't apply to a job where you might have to travel to Canada. Getting stopped at the border and being refused entry will be hard to explain to your employer. Even a DUI will cause you issues.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

2
Look into having the conviction expunged. With a solid example of hard-work and straight-forward living you may be able to have this all disappear.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expungement

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

It should also be noted that I came across a number of engineering jobs where the application asked for felony convictions only, not misdemeanors. From an HR perspective, some just won't care.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

One big elephant in the room is whether you have be registered for your offense.

TTFN
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

IRstuff, that was my thinking too.

I'd have hoped that if expunging it were an option the OP would have already take care of it so that it's no longer a significant issue.

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

That would be the negative for me too, if an applicant was registered. It would mean a more extensive background check.

Chris
SolidWorks 11
ctopher's home
SolidWorks Legion

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
I've looked into expungement and sealing for convictions, here in Illinois it is impossible as they don't allow any type of convictions to be sealed or expunged. My only bet is to, and I quote, 'to pray for an executive expungement' from the Governor. They do have a process, website, forms et cetera, which to go through. It's an enormous hassle, but I'm actually in the process of filling out the paper work right now. I am required to register, but only for 2 more years. I don't know what my chances are of having this taken off my record, therefor by posting this thread I'm basically hoping for best, but preparing for the worst.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Excellent job on getting your life back on track and getting your degree. Unfortunately anyone with children is going to cringe when they find out your background and wouldn't trust you for a minute. If I were in your position I would offer my services in person to small companies on a contract basis. Put on some nice clothes and walk into small businesses and ask to speak to the owner/manager. Explain that you are looking for contract, part time, or full time work and sell them on the skills that you have to offer. Smaller companies have the flexibility to bring someone on with very little questions asked and once you are in I wouldn't say anything unless specifically asked. Do what you have to do to get some experience and earn some money and then you must start your own business. You cannot be fired or judged by HR if you are the owner of the company.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Quote (Unfortunately anyone with children is going to cringe when they find out your background )


That's probably true but extremely unfortunate for this individual. Obviously I don't know the exact circumstances of the situation but they said it involved their high school sweetheart. To me, that sounds like a senior - freshman/sophmore type of thing. Something that wouldn't make much of a difference 3 years from then but because of the age difference around 18 it meant all the difference in the world. I know a few people in this situation and it's too bad. They aren't sexual predators in any sense...just someone who liked the wrong person in high school.

Anyway, I think bigTom's response is a good one. If you get the experience and maybe in a year or two can get your record clean, you will end up doing OK. The toughest part for you will be building the relationship with individuals first in ways that don't require your record to be brought up. At least then they will know you for your present state and not your past.

Good luck to you....

PE, SE
Eastern United States

"If a builder builds a house for someone, and does not construct it properly, and the house which he built falls in and kills its owner, then that builder shall be put to death!"
~Code of Hammurabi

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

2
Let me go out on a limb here -

I am a date rape survivor from my teenage years. Catman9000, I hope to God that your "bad ideas" were consensual. That would be the first question I'd ask as an employer, seeing that on your record. If they weren't, you'd best start working with a local rape crisis center, get some training, and show that you truly understand how much hurt can come from that. Be honest and open with prospective employers.

If it was consensual, then be prepared to explain that, but also to be doubted. Men may not care about your record, but most women will. Of course I have no idea how much folks can ask about this, legally, but I'm just letting you know where I come from as a female business owner.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

The key word here is "misdemeanor". I've never seen a job application where misdemeanor offenses had to be listed.

Behave yourself.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
I appreciate everyone's honest opinion. To clarify, not that it's too relevant, I was actually 17 when I was arrested, in Illinois the age of consent is 17. I've also given serious thought to the fact that many states don't allow companies to do background checks that go back further than 7 years, sunny warm Texas, New Mexico or California sound like great places to live anyway.

I understand that some responders may be a little irked with my past, however wouldn't you (especially the tax burdened independent contractors and business owners) much rather have someone like me spending my time and energy working hard at getting a normal, professional life together verses collecting welfare for the rest of my life? I honestly believe that the best possible way a man in my position can repay his debt to society is by becoming a contributing member of it. Am I wrong?

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

16 year old girl, 17 year old boy, absolutely consensual with no undue pressure in theory should be OK with just about anyone.

30 year old man, 12 year old girl should get you drawn and quartered.

The ages that fall between change the shades of grey.

Date rape should get you drawn and quartered no matter what ages.

I was very confused by misdemeanor felony.

We all have misdemeanors on our record, unless you never got a parking or traffic ticket.

Regards
Pat
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Pat,
16 year old girl, 17 year old boy, absolutely consensual with no undue pressure in theory should be OK with just about anyone.
It does not work that way in some states in the USA.
They have statutary rape laws, where if a girl is under the age of consent she cannot give it. If you are of the age of consent and you have sex with such a person you are guilty of statutary rape, ( the common term for sexually mature but underage girls is jailbait.)
B.E.

The good engineer does not need to memorize every formula; he just needs to know where he can find them when he needs them. Old professor

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Where I'm confused is how does one get charged with such a crime, if it is consensual (as pat said above). Maybe some situation where you are in a public park when it's closed, in a car, and the cops come knocking on the window & ask you to show IDs? I can't think of too many situations where it is that innocent (consensual) and you still get busted. Also seems from what I remember from the stories I've heard, the cops just tell you to move along, unless there's alcohol or drugs involved. Maybe another scenario is getting busted by an angry daddy?

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

It brings up the scenario where a cop comes across 2 teenagers sitting on opposite sides of a car reading books.
The cop asks their ages, and the boy is 19. When asking how old the girl is, he is told she will be 18years old in 15 minutes and 20 seconds.
B.E.

The good engineer does not need to memorize every formula; he just needs to know where he can find them when he needs them. Old professor

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Dad or mom would be the usual suspects...get mad at one kid or the other, then "teach a lesson" by involving the police

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Obviously, if the case is correctly described, there are probably millions of teens that could have been convicted for the same offense. Nonetheless, what an employer is most likely to find, assuming they do their due diligence at all is that the OP is a registered sex offender. The fact that this will go away in a few years is secondary to the find. The fact that it might have been a teenage indiscretion is likely to be secondary to the find. Some companies may overlook this, but I would guess that most companies will run away. And the rationale is, of course, trivially apparent; few companies are going to take the risk of having the OP going postal, or whatever, at a later date, and investigation will reveal the criminal history. That's when the sharks, er, lawyers, start to circle in a feeding frenzy from the smell of money.

TTFN
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

mechmama, it's usually the result of an angry parent (almost universally the girls's parents) finding out that their child has engaged in sexual intercourse. Oddly enough, in the United States if it was consentual and both the girl and the boy are underage when this happens, I've never heard of the girl being charged with the crime. It is always the boy that is charged instead. And for the rest of his life he must explain during job interviews the details regarding his arrest and conviction for his crime.

The price of such an indiscretion can be quite high, but teenagers rarely think about potential consequences in the heat of the moment.

Maui

www.EngineeringMetallurgy.com

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

One thing nagging in the back of my mind. From what the potential employer is likely to find in a background check, or even from copies of legal documents the OP could provide etc. will it be possible to corroborate the OP's version of events?

Sadly, many sex offenders try to make it sound like this kind of situation or some other mix up when it isn't. Many of them are master manipulators/con men so it is difficult to have much confidence that any given person with a recorded conviction really was just a victim of circumstance etc.

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

I think that'll depend on how thorough the background check is. My gut feel is that the checker will see "rape" and be done with it, and put into their report, "convicted of rape." The bottom line is that unless there is an overwhelming reason to want this person, no one will bother asking for an explanation, or for more detail. Only someone that really wants to hire this person would try to find out how bad it really is.

For most people, a listing under Megan's Law is sufficient for a veto.

TTFN
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
Alright, can we please stay on topic. I ask that future posters please consider only what I've told you, accept it at face value and comment on that topic and that topic alone. Please do not post speculations, opinions or judgement on past events or my personal character, they are greatly not needed, do not help my situation at all and are a waste of everyone else's time reading.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman, seems like good training for you, in my opinion. If you can't handle this, how are you going to handle any greater pressure over your past?

After rereading sita's post and your next post, I'd say there is a nagging question about consent. She went out on a limb and exposed her soul. You responded with getting arrested at 17, which in no way implies innocence of rape. Your response put a question in my mind and it's not left.

I would rather have you productive in society but I also want you to be honest with yourself, if you're not. While you are older and wiser than in high school, so are all of the people here and you've asked for their advice. winky smile

Pamela K. Quillin, P.E.
Quillin Engineering, LLC

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman9000, my 30 Jul 12 12:15 post was meant to be on topic. I didn't' mean to imply you may be lying, if you took it that way apologies.

My point is that once aware of the conviction, even if they don't nix you at that point, a potential employer may want to verify your story etc. and I was asking how easy that is to do.

If it's hard to verify, some may not bother and assume the worst.

As to your point about being self sufficient etc. I'm sure most of us condone that and encourage you in your endeavors.

Doesn't mean we're universally comfortable working around, or in some cases having our loved ones etc. working around, convicted sex offenders.

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
I have no issues sharing what I can, when I can. However, I chose this handle (one which I've never used anywhere else on the web) precisely for anonymity. Unless someone on this forum is directly offering me employment I have no significant reason for disclosing anymore information than I already have with any of you. If you do not want to believe in what I'm telling you or in the justice system that is fine with me.

Besides my arrest record, court docket, disposition, terms of conviction and my rap sheet, I really have nothing that could corroborate my side of the story. And honestly, how many of you keep your love notes/photos/chatroom sessions from high school anyway?

Just as an aside, I'll also agree that my case is quite indeed an extraordinary one, but it does actually happen to young people across the nation more often than you may be aware of.

I didn't come on here to discuss the past or the complexity/idiocy of the legal system, if you have further questions about punishments: civil, criminal or otherwise concerning sexual offenses - that is something you should take up with a lawyer and not me.

Just as a final reminder; we are talking about what someone in my situation can expect to happen in the days ahead not what I've done in the days behind.

Finally, unlike many of the fellow students I share classes with, I never took an advanced math, a physics or chem class in high school. So when I finally did choose to pursue a BSME while in community college, I had to complete 2 years of required prerequisite algebra classes(math 094, 095, 098, 131, 135), 2 intro level physics(098, 105) and chem classes (100, 103) before I could ever even set foot into a basic engineering class. Despite the best wishes of some folks, I didn't come this far in my studies/life to 'f*** off and die', that's just not part of the plan and I'm too far a resilient of a person to allow that to happen.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Two more years. Sounds like grad school will take up that time, then you won't have to be registered when you apply for work.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

4
Many here know what it's like to catch up in college. You're not alone. It's hard work and you've come a long way. Your desire and drive are commendable. I'm glad you're continuing with positive steps in your life.

You aren't the only one who's been young. You goofed up as a kid. Who hasn't goofed up as a kid and an adult?

Your days behind are going to be discussed at some point and that may have an impact on your days ahead. You'll need to be able to handle it. You're getting defensive and rude with your responses. You'll die, figuratively, in an interview with experienced people.

People exist who know how to push buttons to crack others, break them down, and make them spill the beans in very short order in interviews. I've been in interviews like that and cracked. I'm not Pollyanna. I've been through crap in life that would bury, literally, most people. I'm not stupid. Yet, I cracked and went where I shouldn't have gone. Graciously deal with folks a bit longer than you have here. They've not been too tough on you, from my position.

Employers are going to push for the facts of the situation. You need to prepare yourself to provide factual answers without getting defensive and rude. The flow of this thread is something you can use to prepare those answers. People at potential employers are going to think just as the people here have. They may even articulate those thoughts in an interview. It's not been a waste for you.

You seem to have some outstanding issues about the whole thing. It may be in your best interest to square those away long before you begin interviewing. Otherwise, one of those high-pressure tactic people will crack you and you'll be spilling the truth before you know what's happened. That won't be pretty because you may learn things about yourself you didn't know and in front of others in the interview. Then what?

The pure truth of life is always best to deal with regardless of how ugly or beautiful it is. Truth does not change.

Reveal what you deem necessary and are comfortable with. But be nice because you did ask for help and revealed some of your situation. Stick around and continue learning. The people here are good and knowledgeable.

Pamela K. Quillin, P.E.
Quillin Engineering, LLC

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman

You came here with half a story and asked for advice. If you can't see the flaw in that you won't make a very good engineer.

No one can give good advice without good data to base it on. Some might be very kind and say all is great, but unless we know the details we can't.

If it truly was a misdemeanour between two consenting teenagers it might very well be expunged and or ignored however if it was more serious it most probably will follow you and you need to accept that.

Also, I will within the rules of this site answer how I like in any thread I like. If you don't want comment don't post, and sure as %$^# don't tell me what, when and where I can post. For one it indicates a character flaw that may have lead to your having this problem. ie a lack of respect rights of others.

Regards
Pat
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

(OP)
I think I've received all I information I need at the moment. I've decided that I may need to consult a legal forum instead. I've really enjoyed my limited visit to this site and will back in the future under a different screen name of coursewink.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman9000. If you decide to come back "under a different name of course" write the system admin first (maybe by red flagging this thread and asking him to delete this account so you can create a new anonymous one in the future.) Bad things often happen to people who try to create multiple accounts -- both accounts go "poof!" You can red fleg the post by going to the bottom center and clicking on the words "Inappropriate post? If so, Red Flag it!"

This site offers a lot from the technical advice for engineers. Even if you just read through the posts, you can learn a tremendous amount.

Patricia Lougheed

******

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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

I would also suggest having this forum deleted. It seems to have offered you much more than you bargained for.

Your situation is unique and will require a unique solution. Take the good advice here and keep up the hard work. If you are genuine and sincere you will eventually get where you need to be.

Good luck.

PE, SE
Eastern United States

"If a builder builds a house for someone, and does not construct it properly, and the house which he built falls in and kills its owner, then that builder shall be put to death!"
~Code of Hammurabi

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman9000;

I was in your same boat when I started my degree pursuit 5 years ago...I was 8 years out of high school, fresh out of the military and ready to start college. But being so far out from my last time in a classroom, I had to start at the bottom, like you mentioned, getting spooled back up on the basics so I wouldn't crash and burn when I got to Calc 1.

That being said, I too didn't have the best GPA, but what I was able to do more recently that a classmate suggested is, if you have any gaps in your curriculum schedule ( say you can't fill your schedule up with a full 12 hours because of a prerequisite ) Try and see if you can fit in re-taking a course you struggled with early on. In my case, the biggest help was Calc 1. As you know, it carries a lot of weight credit-wise, and in my case, I got a C the first time through. About a year ago, the way the classes fell led to me being held up by pre-requisites, so I re-took Calc 1 and let me tell you, it was a great refresher, it was much easier the 2nd time around, and I got a high A. So needless to say, this jump in 5 credit hours from a C to an A helped out my GPA. Not the most time efficient option, but can make the best of a pre-req hold up. I would definitely be in the 2.8-2.9 range if I hadn't done this...I've got it up to and held onto a respectable 3.2 and have 2 classes left this semester.

Good luck

Adam

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

"I've decided that I may need to consult a legal forum instead."

Probably the smartest thing you have said in this whole thread. If you are asking engineers for legal advice it may not even be worth what you paid for it. The best advice anyone other than a lawyer can give you is to talk to a lawyer. Look, honesty may not always be the best policy. If you don't have to give the information, don't volunteer it. You said you were 17 when you were arrested. Were you tried as a juvenile? If so your record might be able to be sealed or expunged now that you are over 18. You need a lawyer to help you out with that. However, if you were to apply for a government job, especially one that requires a security clearance, you may have to disclose your criminal past even if the record was sealed.

For what it is worth, in my career I have never had to fill out a job application or disclose my criminal background ahead of time. Usually you send out resumes and if the company is interested in you based on your resume they will bring you in for an interview. At the interview is when I have always filled out the job application and the hiring manager doesn't always have it in hand during the interview. You need to carefully read what the application asks. Most applications I have ever filled out will ask if you have been been convicted of a felony. Unfortunately that still doesn't mean that the company won't do a criminal background check anyway, and with background checks being cheap and easy, more and more companies do them. Although no company is going to run a background check on you unless they are interested in extending you an offer. So all is not lost because the professional job search isn't all about dropping a job application in a slot and hoping for the best. By the time questions about your past come up, the employer will already have had a chance to meet you and form an opinion about whether or not they want to hire you. If you have to disclose your record on the application, it would be best to have an open an honest discussion about it at the interview. The worst part about lying on your application is that many companies will extend a job offer before performing the background check. I have heard stories of people getting fired after already being on the job for several weeks before the background check was performed.

It is also my opinion that it should be illegal for companies to ask if you have ever been arrested. An arrest is not the same as a conviction. In Amercia you are supposed to be innocent until proven guilty. It should also be illegal for them to inquire about your criminal history any further back than say 7 years. If you have managed to keep your nose clean for that long it means that you really have been trying to keep your life on the right track.

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

so, this is what the government will generally ask if you are looking for a security clearance

Quote:

Section 22 - Police Record
For this section report information regardless of whether the record in your case has been sealed, expunged, or
otherwise stricken from the court record, or the charge was dismissed. You need not report convictions under the
Federal Controlled Substances Act for which the court issued an expungement order under the authority of 21
U.S.C. 844 or 18 U.S.C. 3607. Be sure to include all incidents whether occurring in the U.S. or abroad.
Police Record
Have any of the following happened? (If 'Yes' you will be asked to provide details for each offense that pertains to
the actions that are identified below.)
• In the past seven (7) years have you been issued a summons, citation, or ticket to appear in court in a
criminal proceeding against you? (Do not check if all the citations involved traffic infractions where the fine
was less than $300 and did not include alcohol or drugs)
• In the past seven (7) years have you been arrested by any police officer, sheriff, marshal or any other
type of law enforcement official?
• In the past seven (7) years have you been charged, convicted, or sentenced of a crime in any court?
(Include all qualifying charges, convictions or sentences in any Federal, state, local, military, or non-U.S.
court, even if previously listed on this form).
• In the past seven (7) years have you been or are you currently on probation or parole?
• Are you currently on trial or awaiting a trial on criminal charges?

TTFN
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Oops, hit the post, instead of preview. So, expungement is irrelevant to the crime at hand. However, since you are 9 yrs past the conviction, you don't have to reveal this for a security clearance, at least, from this government organization.

TTFN
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RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman:

Coming from a recent grad, I think your best bet is to try and use any networking / connections that you gain in school and even in life. Sexual charges notwithstanding, with a low G.P.A. your best bet is to try and stand out through having a good relationship with someone already employed or having proven yourself to be a good employee.

I would highly recommend exploring your schools intern/co-op program before you graduate.\

Best of Luck,
-Ian

"All models are wrong, but some are usefull" - George E. P. Box

RE: Will a 'bad sounding' criminal conviction from long ago keep me from finding work in the field?

Catman has left the conversation a long time ago.

Patricia Lougheed

******

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