Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Just a month before I expected to graduate this program, I was involved in a serious academic situation. It was an issue that could have been resolved between two parties. However, I was called in to the director's office, and it was determined that the disciplinary committee needed to be involved to determine my status as a student.

The program accused me of intentionally committing an ethical violation. I appeared at my disciplinary hearing to share my side of the story and answer questions. Ultimately, the committee sided with the program, ruling that I was guilty of violating several codes of ethics without any hard evidence. Thus, I was slapped with disciplinary probation, which would remain on my permanent record. Also, I was expected to redo a semester's worth of work in less than 24 hours I was notified of the disciplinary committee's decision.

Due to the enormous pressure I was under, I could not successfully complete everything and thus did not pass the course. On top of disciplinary probation, I was also placed on academic probation. I would be placed on leave for the Fall semester, since I would be expected to retake the course next Spring. I wasn't allowed to attend this year's or even next year's graduation ceremonies. Also, I couldn't complete my Level II Fieldwork at a VA hospital this summer.

Without a doubt, I had just experienced the worst two days of my life. No, I wasn't having a terrible nightmare. The reason why I decided to attend this program was because I believed that I would be learning in a supportive environment. However, I felt that this same program took advantage of my vulnerability to exercise its power. In an instant, so many things that I looked forward to this year were taken away from me.  

Right now, I'm in the process of writing my appeal. In my heart, I believe that they didn't understand my side of the story. Also, I strongly believe that the disciplinary action dealt out against me was excessive. They didn't have any hard evidence to back these accusations. Unfortunately, they placed the burden on me to prove my innocence.

On the bright side, I'm not alone and I have great help.  This month has been disastrous, but I'm trying to hang in there and fight. In this case, I'm David who's up against Goliath, a formidable opponent. I'm so grateful for the love and support from my family and friends. Otherwise, I would have given up... and lost.