First Time Offender; Petty Theft. Deferred Sentence Possibility

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Oklahoma

I have been caught shoplifting and i have been issued a court date for next month, naturally i am very nervous about the outcome. I am an international student so any conviction is bad news. I have been reading up on what the possible punishments are and if they're was an alternative. In my reading I found out about a deferred sentence. How would I approach the Judge about considering me eligible for this program and what are the possibilities he would grant me admission. I made a stupid mistake and it will never ever happen again, I have an exemplary record, never had a speeding fine or anything in my home country. I am a great student and this sort of behaviour is just completely out of character for me. Will the judge give me a chance to explain this? I really really want to get a deferred sentence and not have the conviction on my record. Do you have any advice on how to ask for such a chance?

You need to consult a local lawyer about the availability of diversion programs and deferrals in your county, and whether you qualify. Their availability and terms vary by state and county. You negotiate plea deals with the prosecutor, not the judge.