I found out I worked without authorization.

I am an international student in university. My study permit and visa will expire in Sept 30 2024. Due to failing a few courses, my graduation got delayed and I will have to renew both my study permit and visa.

However, while preparing documents for the renewal, I found out that I accidentally worked before my study started, which is illegal. Back then I just finished high school in Canada and could not fly back home for summer visit because of COVID-19. I was very depressed and my host (I was a minor then) suggested getting a job to help take my mind off the negative thoughts. I thought I could count as a university student because I was already admitted to a school (my fault for not fact-checking).

I don’t want to lie in my application, but there is a chance it may be rejected and I’ll be deported before even graduating uni. This will definitely affect my PGWP application as well. Should I come clean and submit a letter of explanation as additional document for both the study permit and visa extension? What would you suggest I do?