Have you thought about getting a lawyer(one that is in good with that court) and filing a petion with the judge who you went before to get it removed so that you can join? yes it will cost you, but if you have stayed out of trouble since it happened and you have good referances and are in school to better yourself, you just could have a chance to have it removed, I have seen it done in certain cases and was very worthwhile for that person to go through the hassle.