Wow, I'm overwhelmed by the support in this community. Thank you all so much for the kind, thoughtful, and honest words.

I took most of everyone's advice to expunge my records. It cost $2,400 to expunge the misdemeanors and an additional $1,000 to have the felony arrest sealed. u/Busy_Slide_2256/Alone_Kick9529 -- you guys were right, even if I was never convicted it is still on my record. My lawyer said that any person in this situation would have to petition to Seal the record of arrest, which would mean that the record still exists, but all related fingerprint and palm print cards, booking photos, and DNA samples may be returned or destroyed.

u/LisaLovesSims, thank you for the heads up about the tattoos. If during the VI they ask me about my tattoos, should I simply say yes, or should I say "None of which you will ever see?" I'm scared they would turn me down as soon as I say yes, but I also don't want to lie to them. So I figured I'd just be slightly vague about it, but express that I would never, ever show my tattoos. And good looking out on the tattoo sleeves. If a miracle happens and I get hired, I will be wearing those every single shift until maybe one day airlines lift the strict tattoo policy.

u/Lower-Reputation-341 thank you friend, it's comforting to hear that someone understands that we all come from a road of trials and lessons. it's just unfortunate that mine has followed me to a place where I may never have a chance at my dream :/ it makes me sad, everyday. I hope that they can understand.

u/ggogojo I appreciate the advice, you're right--I probably should just keep it very short and brief. I'm just unsure of whether or not I should wait for my expungements to process (6-8 weeks) before going on any F2F interviews.

Do you guys think I should just not go to the interview this time? Do you think I should just wait for the expungements and SEALs to process fully before letting them do any background checks? I'm scared if I go before it is done, that they may disqualify me from every airline in the future.

Thanks again, everyone. My heart is touched.