I am feeling very discouraged because I recently found out about the background check that is done when you are trying to obtain your nursing license. I am getting ready to apply for the nursing program at my college, and I am trying to decide whether I should go forward with it, because i am worried about my misdemeanor from 5 years ago.

Not long after I turned 18, I was convicted for a misdemeanor for shoplifting. I am 23 now, so it has been 5 yrs since, and I would never dream of doing anything like that again. I was just younger, and I just moved to Georgia for my senior year of high school, and not knowing anyone, I felt the pressure to be "cool" so the kids at school would like me. Dumb, I know.

In GA, you can not expunge records. I am afraid this misdemeanor charge will prohibit me from attaining my licensure. What do you think? Should I just keep going or am I wasting my time?

I don't know about there, but in Texas we have to go through a discovery process in cases like that.  It's not typically a big deal, they look at your record, see what kind of student you've been and kinda weigh the chances of you doing it again.  Sounds like you would be fine, but definitely talk to an advisor or the dean of your school or call the BON.  Good luck!