You can be cited for a violation for having an open container of an alcoholic beverage in a public place. "Public places" are those which anyone can enter freely and include sidewalks, streets, tree lawns, some outdoor areas of apartment complexes and inside parked or moving cars.The fact is that there are no "minor" misdemeanors.  A misdemeanor is a criminal offense. A conviction can result in adverse consequences regarding employment, student loans, professional licensing, just to name a few. You really should speak directly with a criminal law attorney in your area. Also, see if your university offers free/low cost legal assistance.There is something known as "diversion" which essentially diverts a case out of the criminal justice system. In a diversion, you will go to court and plead guilty to the offense. You are then sentenced to probation. If you successfully complete it, your plea will be withdrawn and your case dismissed. This leaves you with a clean criminal record. Again, consult with a lawyer as to all of this.