These phrases were used to indirectly describe his nature and temper; also may be referred to as a 'sum total' of his life.

1. (Eight) diplomas: he was a good specialist, hard working man
2. (Once) Arrested and brought to a Sobering-up station for detoxication: he certainly wasn't a geek (going for a couple of shots of vodka once in a while was thought absolutely normal for an average man in Russia, as opposed to complete teetotallers, which are thought somewhat strange people), he was a normal, average man.
3. Bonus for long service - adds to the statement 1

Also: only one 'visit' to the station means that he used to drink moderately, without losing control. (Avid drinkers get to the detox station much more often than once in life). This happens when one is caught too-drunk in public or found by the roadside dead drunk sleeping.