By DAVID DE LEON •
Ranger Reporter •
Tattoos are a permanent reflection of a person. Whether it is done on a dare or to commemorate a special something in your life, they are extremely hard and expensive to remove.
Becky Aragon, a criminal justice major, expressed her views on tattoos.
“My tattoos mean a lot to me,” she said. “They represent my personality and who I am, but I do keep my career in mind when I consider the placement of my tattoos.”
Other students said they feel the same way about their tattoos. They are conscious of the placement of the artworks and think they do not live up to the stereotypes that come with them.
Tattoos have become a huge part of the young generation’s culture and style. Some professional athletes and movie stars are covered with tattoos. You can watch reality programs that showcase the lives of people involved with tattoo parlors.
Famous tattoo artists such as Kat Von D, Don Ed Hardy and Ami James have become celebrities because of their incredible works of art on people’s skin.
More and more of the “common folk” have adjusted to the belief that tattoos are personal pieces of art, and usually if the tats remain hidden, they have no issue with them.
“I will probably get a tattoo one day, when I know how much leeway I have in my career,” said Kit Gregory, a general studies major.
Regardless of professionals’ views on tattoos, some students could not care less about their tattoos being visible. They do not think they should have to hide or be ashamed of something that means so much to them.
“I realize that it might cost me some employment opportunities in the future, but my tattoos are a big part of me and my personality,” said Aleza Photisene, a mass communication major.
“I should not have to hide who I am.”
Despite such courageous and proud views, a vast number of people believe that if you have a tattoo, it should remain hidden in the work place because it is unprofessional or does not portray an image, whatever it may be, that a corporation or business is looking for.
The trend might be changing as younger generations skyrocket to the top of the professional world.
Maybe in just a few elections, our future president will have ink on his or her skin. It certainly would make their views and personality more transparent.
Students express themselves through their tattoos…so we asked,
“What is your tattoo and why do you have it?”
“I’ve always loved Pikachu.”
“It means, ‘The Lord who provides,’ and it’s a reminder for me to not worry about anything.”
“I’ve always loved Batman.”