I recently was offered an internship with NGA and now required to get a Top secret/ SCI clearance with a polygraph. . Im currently a college student and I tried marijuana two times 8-9 months ago. I tried it once and didnt feel anything, then tried it again a couple weeks later and did not like it. I have no desire to ever do it again.
Shortly after I became really passionate about my studies and applied for this internship. I was told by multiple people who have the same clearance in regards to my situation that I would be fine and that they do not care. I plan on telling the truth and listing it in my paperwork, but I am worried about getting denied.
I was a freshman and have no contact with my roommate who let me try it.
Some 3 letter agencies have a one year no drug use minimum policy. I would double check regarding the NGA. If they don’t and you don’t have any other issues, you may get cleared. Just be honest either way
Should you, no. Will you, more than likely, they just don’t care about issues anymore. I am not even sure why they have a clearance process. Maybe to keep people employed? Seems like 99% of the denials are approved once lawyers get involved.
The agency MAY withdraw their offer when they see this on your forms. If they do, they might be doing you a favor by allowing you to avoid a denial. There is usually an allowance for “youthful experimentation” (with which I do not completely agree) but being so recent, you are still “youthful”.
If all of your other ducks are in a line, you certainly may be OK. I would consider discussing this with your hiring contact. They should have some idea what the limits are for your position with your agency.