Success with a criminal record?

I have read an endless amount of stories on this site and analogous sites from people who have criminal records and no prospects of finding a job. They have run the gamut of depravity--from the repeat, uneducated, violent ex-offenders to those with MBA's. Yet none have addressed my specific issue; I hope those of you who take the time to read my post can (and do so constructively).

I was a high school teacher from NJ, that was accused of a variety of offenses. I finally plead to 3rd degree official misconduct. Not to get too detailed, but I was a stupid, immature guy in his mid-twenties that fell in love with a senior--the immaturity on my part was me acting on these feelings at that time and not waiting. Nonetheless, that was nearly five years ago and we are currently engaged.

I am 30 years old now (she's 23 for those who are doing the math) and have had difficulty finding a job. I've blamed that on my complete lack of practical skills, so decided to go back to my local county college and get a degree in Computer Information Systems (then possibly transfer to NJIT).

My basic question is this: is that a waste of my money and time? It seems that no one with a criminal record, irrespective of the nature of the offense and level of education,(from the anecdotal evidence on these forums) has secured a job that is commensurate with his/her education and experience, landing jobs in only retail, construction, or the food service industry. I graduated from college with honors with a humanities degree; it seems as though I have wasted my time and education now--I certainly don't want to waste anymore.

Any advice or stories of hope would be greatly appreciated--please no more stories of despair, as I have had as much as I can stomach. Thank you everyone...sincerely.

Before I go any further I want to assure you that this is not a business opportunity offer. I am a coach and mentor to people who are in similar situations. My motivation is the same predicament as yours that my son found himself in.
It sickens me that people who pay their dues are not allowed to go on with their life. It is never a waste to continue with your education. The problem is only visualizing yourself working for other people and not seeing that you can be working for yourself.
As I said I don't have a business opportunity to sell you. What I have is the knowledge and skills to direct you to how you can earn money online without being ripped off. That is if you have the desire. There are no cost and low cost methods to building an income stream to supplement your income. No get rich schemes they don't exist. So if you are ready to think outside the box reply with your number and the best time to call me. Oh I do not charge for my coaching services, because I only work with those serious about changing their lives and overcoming the fear of success in a world that keeps saying "No" We are about to launch a free social network for people with employment barriers that will have all the tools needed in one place. We can discuss that also. Good luck and I wish you much success.
Lydia Brown

I am not sure if this site will allow you to send me a private email with your number. So maybe an email address would be better. Take Care Lydia Brown

free2succeed.blogspot.com/2008/12/searching-for-work-with-background.html

Matt..I would LOVE a job in construction..I'm actually praying hard for this one apprenticeship to come through with IBEW as a telecom tech (my dad's in that union and been trying to get me in). But this economy has prevented that from happening so far. But I have interviewed for helper positions, none of which I was offered and one I was actually laughed at. If you met me, you'd see that I am the antithesis of an artisan..hey, if anyone out there wants to employ and overly-educated guy who's willing do do anything for descent wages and benefits, feel free to respond.

Oh, Ms. Brown...if you (or anyone) would like to email me, my email is lostandconfused27@yahoo.com.

Thank you

lostandconfused in Long Valley, New Jersey said: Matt..I would LOVE a job in construction..I'm actually praying hard for this one apprenticeship to come through with IBEW as a telecom tech (my dad's in that union and been trying to get me in). But this economy has prevented that from happening so far. But I have interviewed for helper positions, none of which I was offered and one I was actually laughed at. If you met me, you'd see that I am the antithesis of an artisan..hey, if anyone out there wants to employ and overly-educated guy who's willing do do anything for descent wages and benefits, feel free to respond.

Oh, Ms. Brown...if you (or anyone) would like to email me, my email is lostandconfused27@yahoo.com.

Thank you

In addition to praying you can send letters to the President, and Members of Congress & the Senate. Share this link with all your family and friends - even with strangers. We are the People who elected these People to work for the People. The more noise you make - the more you'll be heard!

www.petition2congress.com/2/1977/go/343321

Let us send as many letters so as we can and let them know it's time to stop dodging their responsibility to us.

21 years old and two duis, i have an omninous horizon it seems, and though my convictions were criminal in fact, i privately feel no shame. externally, however, i am encumbered by this. maliced. i do not see myself being sucessful.

I am a geniune person, and have a perminant waiting space for the self respect i once had, what i would do if you are the same is request a pardon. Ask the big man in charge, and i believe your sincerities will go a long way. good luck

two dui cali in San Francisco, California said: 21 years old and two duis, i have an omninous horizon it seems, and though my convictions were criminal in fact, i privately feel no shame. externally, however, i am encumbered by this. maliced. i do not see myself being sucessful.

I am a geniune person, and have a perminant waiting space for the self respect i once had, what i would do if you are the same is request a pardon. Ask the big man in charge, and i believe your sincerities will go a long way. good luck

my email is omniscience@mindless.com