Navigating The Impact Of Disciplinary Records On College Admissions

High school juniors across the country are gearing up to begin the college admissions process, but many may be wondering how their past mistakes may affect their prospects.

Susan Stone, co-chair of KJKs Student & Athlete Defense/Title IX Practice Group, helps calm parent fears over admissions and ensure their student is set up for success even if theyve made a poor decision in the past.

KJK specializes in defending the rights of students and professors, including in special education issues, Title IX cases, campus misconduct claims, and related criminal prosecutions. Stone was named Best Lawyers “Lawyer of the Year” in the Education category for 2025.

Young students uncertain whether they’ll get into their top choice schools because of a ding on their record often wonder how long their mistake will follow them into the future. Criminal records can also impact future professional licensing opportunities, as fields such as law and healthcare have strict character requirements.

According to Stone, who has extensive experience in student disciplinary cases, including those involving hazing, bullying, and social media issues, there are steps college applicants can take to address past disciplinary actions, and there are legal resources available.