Theft in 5 shops, first time charged - I am an international full time student

I am an international full time student who was caught stealing groceries less that $35.00 from safeway. I was caught 2 years back with a similar offence and was given a warning and was not charged. This time I also stole items of clothing from 5 different shops. These clothes were not my size and i did not try on any of them. Everything in total was less than $350. When interviewed initially I agreed to stealing from safeway but denied stealing the clothes. I hatched a story that my friend gave them to me. However i was very scared that I would be arrested at home as i have had no experience with this kind of a thing. I went back to the police station after 3 days and had another interview and said that i stole the other items. I did inform them that I have a mild eating disorder in which i eat and puke. It started 2 years back when my dad passed away and then i stopped. It started 1 month back when my bf broke up with me. I have never had any kind of legal probs and am a final year medical student with 4 months to go. I already have internship positions. I am so scared as although the officer who interviewed me said that she is trying for diversion she does not think the sergeant will approve due to the number of charges. I will have to go to the magistrates court. What can i do ? I have started seeing a psychologist who will write referance letter and will come to court if necessary... I have not been formally charged yet...what can i do and what is the worst that could happen ?

I will have to go to the magistrates court. What can i do ? I have started seeing a psychologist who will write referance letter and will come to court if necessary... I have not been formally charged yet...what can i do and what is the worst that could happen ?

[Postman]

You have alot to lose, you risked alot needlessly. It takes alot to admit, "I am a thief." At the crucifixion, on one side a thief was being crucified with Jesus. He admits his punishment is deserved, and declares Jesus did nothing to deserve his. He asks Jesus to remember him in Heaven. And Jesus answers, I promise this day you will be with me.

Now this is not exactly law, but I think more important is it is your answer.

I hope you are a good student and have learned well. Go to a church, it does not matter the belief or practice. Offer what you know and the skill you may have to those in need. You will always be a thief, and that day you will be with him. But until that day, do good things for those He loved. Your Judgement will be by man, but he will not let it be more than you can bear.

I am sure, should you need a lawyer, one will be delivered.