Minor in Possession: Minor in Possession Charge, First Offense, 18 Years Old

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Maryland

This is my first charge, I have never had so much as a parking ticket. I go to college in Washington, DC, and was at a frat party in Bethesda, Maryland that was shut down by the police. We were all detained and everybody under 21 (I'm 18) was given the option to take a breathalyzer test and given the charge of Minor in Possession. I opted to not take the breathalyzer because I felt that it wouldn't help my case. When I talked to the cop that was writing my citation, he said that I would have to go to court and would likely just have to take lessons and/or pay a small fine. I've talked to some friends that have had MIP charges in the past, and they said that it's usually not a big deal and that the fine usually isn't too bad, but I'm still worried about the impact this would have on my future, even if it's my first charge.

I have a few questions about this whole situation:
- Should I consult a lawyer or would I be okay going to court on my own?
- Is there any way to get this charge expunged?
- How big will the fine be/how much would lessons cost?
- Will this have a big impact on job background searches?

Thanks :)

Minor in Possession: Minor in Possession Charge, First Offense, 18 Years Old