For me, I don't think the criminal record held me back in wanting to be the person I wanted to be, but I didn't get the opportunity to apply to law school when I wanted to apply. I just didn't want to put myself in a position where I was highlighting my past in a manner that would affect my future.
I had to literally sit back and make sure first and foremost that when I did respond, I knew how to respond, because after going through the 10 steps, I thought it was just clear-cut. I couldn't wait to get my criminal record suspension because, to me, I earned it. I earned it. It was something that I deserved. I was waiting for a favourable response. It set me back a good four years of my life—no question.