I do not want a probational license. Advice?

[SnAmy9]

I'm about to graduate nursing school and I don't want a probational license. It was only recently brought to my attention that this would be possible, since I was always kind of told that it was fine because the arrest was a long time ago.

I was in juvenile hall quite often. I had 2 drug possession charges, 1 in 2002, 1 in 2004, and several violations for failing drug tests in between. As of today, my juvenile record was NOT expunged and my probation was terminated in 2005.

In 2005, as an 18 year old, I got another drug possession (meth). I completed a diversional program in California and the case was dismissed. There were some bumps in the road though, I had to enroll 3 times. The first time, I didn't go and got a warrant. I turned myself in. I renrolled and was handling stuff with juvenile court and they made me do more time, so I got permission to put off enrolling until I got out. Third time was the charm, everything was free and clear. The court record makes it clear that I enrolled three separate times, and had permission (eg. not a violation) that put off enrollment a few months into the future for a third time. It's not really clear that I went to Juvenile Hall in the interim, but it is listed as my address somewhere. I have never had so much as a speeding ticket since, and I am clean.

It's unclear whether I have to answer questions or admit to anything as a juvenile, but even a lawyer I was consulting with over the phone mused about it. And then, is it inevitable since it had an effect on my adult case?

I understand that expunging my adult record would serve no purpose for 2 reasons: 1) because expungement changes "convictions" to "dismissed" and my case already is dismissed and 2) you still have to answer questions to the BRN about expunged cases.

Am I wrong? Anyone have input?

I've talked to a few "Medical License Defense" Lawyers who have quoted my sums of 800-1600 to read over my application and my letters of recommendation and counsel me on them. That's a lot of money, worth it to my career, but is this avoidable?

I've been told to say as little as possible in my "explanation of events surrounding the arrest" but I also don't want to seem like I'm blowing it off or not taking personal responsibilities for my actions. I don't want to say cliche things like "I was in a bad place, or hanging with the wrong crowd." Because my experiences really guided and focused my life once I got past them.

THis is a bit of a rant but any advice would be appreciated.