Hey guys!

I’m graduating college soon and hoping to apply to PhDs for either political science or philosophy.

I am concerned with one aspect of my application. Over the last year I have been in recovery for substance abuse. This led to a myriad of legal charges (1 felony, 1 misdemeanor). These charges pertained to marijuana if this is of any importance.

Since my charges, I got treatment. I transferred from a top 50 liberal arts college to a top 3 North East regional college. I am my sorority’s diversity chair, and have been providing education and awareness on substance abuse. I am in my colleges recovery program. My GPA went from a 3.3 at my old college to a 3.86 at my new one with all 300-level classes (now that I am not using, I can actually do well in school).

I have a part time job right now and have interned for an NGO, on Capitol Hill for a notable Dem house rep, and just recently interned on a campaign for congress. Have also been a TA and am helping a professor with his book right now.

I’m a much better person and student because of what happened to me. I know I’m a great applicant, and I wrote an essay explaining the situation in depth and have a few professors reading it for me, too. ButI am worried. Will my record bar me from admission despite having an overall strong application?

Thanks guys.