Operations Research and a misdemeanor DWI

Hello I am a recently computer science (BS) graduate. During my college career I made a mistake, at a younger less mature age there were decisions made which were reflective of a person not thinking fully about their actions and the consequences involved. After using the experience to better my persons, adopting a serious and purposeful attitude towards all decisions in life, I have drastically changed that person into a young professional with the mindset of excelling in my life and career goals. This being said I would like to ask the commuinity their take on such an individual attempting to pursue a career in operations research. After an internship in the CS field this summer I may plan on pursuing a graduate degree in the field, and at least apply for internship / entry level positions in the field if this is not the case. I understand a lot of my opportunities in life were taken from this extinct behaviour. I only want to know if this opportunity to pursue a field of enjoyment and great interest is lost for me as well.

Does anyone have any experience / advice on pursuing a graduate degree and career in the field of operations research with a DWI on their permanent record?

(Wow, I just noticed this is 8 months old. Oh well, here goes...)

Don't worry too much, Andrew. Yes, in today's crappy economy *any* black mark is something to overcome but, in general, you should be all right once things start to improve. HR departments are usually looking for qualifications, not dis-qualifications, when they put their packages together for the hiring managers so, if you're qualified and interesting, you should get an interview before they run a background check on you, unless you're applying for a job with MADD or something, and then you'll have your interview to set things straight.

The exception is government and gov contractor positions, which will likely run a background check even before an interview since you do not already have a security clearance. Having a DUI will NOT - repeat NOT - keep you from getting a security clearance but you will have to be ready to explain why it is no longer a reason not to trust you, possibly even before you have a chance to interview for the position.

Good luck and good hunting.