I screwed up, how should I fix it?

[throwaway1234]

Without getting into too much detail, this is what happened:

I experimented with MJ several years ago, and admitted to it on the DoDMERB, it wasn't a big deal and I am now confident that I could easily get a waiver for it if needed.

Here is where I really screwed up: while filling out a ROTC scholarship application, I denied any prior drug use. I was selected for and accepted the scholarship, and now there is obviously conflicting information surrounding my prior drug use.

The way I see it I have two main options:

A) Admit to using MJ on all forms (and when asked) in the future, but not volunteer this information and hope that the ROTC application in question is lost in the bureaucracy or overlooked.

B) Come forwards and explain my mistake in detail to an officer at the ROTC program. There are certain circumstances surrounding why I denied it on the application that may help my case.

How should I best approach this? I am not going to lie or deny anything again when I do any future paperwork/interviews, and I am fully prepared to face the consequences of my actions. Obviously I would prefer to keep the scholarship and/or be able to stay in ROTC, but I understand that I may lose the scholarship and/or be kicked out of ROTC for falsifying a document. I am not looking for pity, only advice. I now realize the full implications of lying, and I never wished to cover anything up.

 

[Heath13]

I had the same exact problem. But flipped around. I am going to tell them the truth at the DODMERB exam and come completely honest. I will tell them my reasoning for saying no on my medical info if I have to. That's what my ROTC captain told me to do and he said I would be just fine. I wouldn't try letting them overlook it because that will be one way to bust you down the future if you never come clean now

 

[throwaway1234]

I've decided Option B (admit everything) is probably the best course of action. Who should I talk to at the ROTC program about this? I'd imagine that sooner is better than later to come clean about this.

 

[AROTC-dad]

I am assuming that you have not yet begun college and that you are finishing up high school.

If that is correct, I would suggest starting with the Recruiting Operations Officer (ROO). He or she is likely the most familiar with the application process.
If I am wrong and you have just completed your MS-I year, then I would instead speak with your direct military advisor.

Hopefully some of the ROO's on this forum can chime in as well.

 

[MohawkArmyROTC]

What branch of ROTC? Generally in the Army, experimental MJ use is not an issue as long as it doesn't happen again, and that it occurred 6+ months in the past prior to being in ROTC. Lack of integrity is a bigger issue.

If you admit to past MJ use, you will need a waiver, but again it is not too hard to get one in the Army. Not sure about the other branches.

It always easier to tell the truth, then to remember lies and omissions.

 

[throwaway1234]

I am assuming that you have not yet begun college and that you are finishing up high school.

This is correct, is a Program Information Officer similar to an ROO?

What branch of ROTC?

Navy. I am not worried about the actual MJ use at all, it is nothing compared to my omission on the scholarship application. I realize my mistakes, and am willing to face the consequences head on.

I have a meeting with the PIO coming up soon, and plan on disclosing everything then. Thank you all for your help.