KJK’s Susan Stone and Kristina Supler recently joined Dr. Christopher Lewis on the University of Michigan-Flint’s Victors in Grad School podcast to discuss one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of graduate admissions, navigating disclosures of disciplinary or legal issues from the past.
Susan and Kristina shared practical advice for prospective students, emphasizing the importance of honesty, thoughtful reflection and strategic responses when addressing past incidents.
“You have to be truthful, but you don’t have to gut yourself either. Read the question. Answer the question. I call it the sandwich approach. Tell them what happened. Tell them the consequence. Tell them how you grew,” Susan explained.
The conversation also touched on the growing role of AI in education, with a reminder not to let technology replace critical thinking. They emphasize that growth, authenticity and resilience matter most. A mistake from your past doesn’t always define your educational future and career.
“This idea of demonstrating growth, coming from a place of authenticity, earnestness to show, you know, that a mistake in the past doesn’t have to forever preclude and limit future opportunities,” Kristina noted.
When setbacks impact your academic goals, it helps to have the right guidance. Let’s talk about how to move forward. Contact our office today at 216-716-5630.
Listen to the full episode here.
About KJK’s Student & Athlete Defense Practice Area
KJK Student & Athlete Defense Attorneys are nationally recognized for their work representing individuals involved in misconduct and Title IX matters. Their practice often intersects with special education advocacy, where they have discovered a passion for supporting students with special education needs, including those with autism and mental health challenges facing criminal charges. Their distinguished practice has built a strong reputation for success, having represented students and faculty at over 200 colleges and universities nationwide.