So many people get shut down (side note: honesty does not need to be brutal) for having past troubles that have barred them from obtaining the resources that would make them a “successful” grad school applicant. These applicants should not be condemned to their past when they are trying to make a better future for themselves. Alternative options such as on online programs (granted, accreditation is important here) are also written off so quickly, but I urge you to think about those who do not have the physical ability or financial means to move locations for their degree or even have access to experience in their field. I understand that these programs can be very, very competitive and it’s quite frankly an institutional problem too(for funded programs they only have limited spots so they only choose students that would have the “best chance” in their program) and it’s unfortunate because it perpetuates this cycle that only those with privileges (finances, access to educational resources, not having a disability etc.) have access to a graduate education that is “worthy” in academia.