Accounting major with petty theft arrest (lawyer, university, shop)

[augu101]

I am 18 years old sophomore at University. Several weeks ago, I was arrested because I shoplifted $30 clothes from Walmart. My lawyer suggested that I should participate in a diversion program in order to get the petty theft charge dismissed. However the arrest will be permanently in my record; I could get it expunged but that will take 5-6 years. Since this charge involves money this will make it difficult more me to receive future internships or job offers in accounting. I have learned my lesson and I will never do this again. However, should I change my major because of this arrest or can I still succeed in my career after I graduate? Please give honest answers.

Thank You

[Plokivos]

Jebus... why?

No Lo? Get a better lawyer. You can get that expunged for $500.

Jebus... but why? What is the matter with you? You need to get that sorted out to make sure you don't run into this issue again. I'm pretty sure, it wasn't the money issue.

[Southern Soul Bro]

I know you're young, but why risk so much over $30 of clothes? Wal-Mart clothes at that.

[Iconographer]

Oh, you're a thief.
Here, take my SSI # and other personal information.
Get the picture?

[AnsleyPark]

I have worked with folks very good honest folks that I trust. A mistake made by a young person is oftentimes dismissed down the road by potential employers. The further you get away from this in time, the less relevant it will become. Proceed on, admit your sorryfullness for the mistake, and you should be fine.

[augu101]

Thanks

[Iconographer]

Originally Posted by augu101

Thanks

Faith and trust are difficult things to restore once they broken. It will take a long time, but with diligence and consistency, you will do it. Good luck to you.

[cwkimbro]

First and foremost stick with accounting, engineering, or business, etc...

It is a high demand well-paying field. Even if this causes problems for you and even if you must first take a lessor job, you will still be better off with that degree than another. Some people might potentially see you as a bargain if you have the skills and others won't hire you. (you can see where the long-term negative affects really are and how silly the risk was for a $30 item now), but you can still end up ahead in the long-run and can establish a working track-record.

Once you get a job, your working track-record is what matters.

It is possible engineering related careers might be more passive. Financial people are extremely concerned about potential for bad decision making caused by white-collar theft or seeking incentives while others take the financial risk. The nice thing about engineering or another production related major, is people are just looking for people with the initiative to -get things done-. There isn't necessarily much theft risk.

[Plokivos]

btw, it doesn't take 5-6 years to expunge that. It'll take a 3 months.