MANAGING EDITOR – VICTORIA OLGUIN
Over the course of many years, the perception of tattoos has changed drastically. Now, more than ever, it seems that tattoos are common among many in the workplace. and the greater community. Though tattoos have become more of a modern trend now, the usage of tattoos has occurred centuries before, dating back to 3370 B.C. From tattoed mummies found in Ancient Egypt, and Native tribes using tattoos as tribal symbols, the usage of tattoos has varied over the years.
At the beginning of the 20th century, tattoos specifically became common with sailors. A horrific practice of tattoos, however, was used to brand slaves and criminals. This played a big role in shaping the negative connotation that persisted with tattoos for years to come. Despite this negative connotation, many people today have used tattoos as a way to tell their stories in a meaningful way, helping to reshape the views of tattoos in society.
“I have a tattoo of an egg surrounded by the words ‘A little broken but still good.’ For me, this tattoo is [a] constant reminder that no matter what happens to me, I will still be worth something; it’s almost paying a homage of sorts to my struggles with mental health that I’m grateful for being able to get through,” said Catherine Garcia, sophomore forensic science-criminology major.
Tattoos have been a way for many to showcase their journeys, allowing people to share their stories through art. For others, tattoos have added to a person’s story, almost like an accessory
Isabella Mulwani, senior accounting major said, “Some people might think it’s silly but I view my tattoos as a permanent accessory and sort of a signature to who I am. I have 6 tattoos, of which are visible, and they all represent either different people or periods in my life.” I love being young and I genuinely look forward to looking back on my 20’s when I’m older. I want to have crazy stories to tell my kids, stories full of mistakes, and successes, and I think my tattoos are a physical representation of this stage in my life and I love that,” Mulwani continued.
While tattoos can be used to express oneself, others have used the art as a tribute to loved ones or other important moments in life. “I decided to get some tattoos because they had a significant meaning to me. I have a couple dedicated to my dogs and a matching tattoo with my mom!” Bailey Cabrera, junior finance and risk management major shared. From pets to family members, the possibilities of tattoos serving as a tribute vary indeed. “It’s a great conversation starter. Whether it’s by someone who has never gotten a tattoo or people who have multiple. I’ve found that it allows you to get a little snapshot of someone’s life and typically the majority of the people who comment on my tattoo are pretty cool so that of course helps,” Garcia added.
Despite the meaning behind tattoos, some fear that they could interfere with their chances of success within the work environment. Cabrera shares how tattoos in the work environment have changed them. “Being a business student, it is commonly understood that they are not going to be shown off or seen. Though, society is progressing and allowing workers to have visible tattoos! As a society, it is way more common to see people with tattoos, back in the day, it was definitely taboo,” Cabrera said. With the negative connotation slowly disappearing, people have already been experiencing the growing acceptance of tattoos in the workplace.
“I have had three internships, in all very corporate and professional settings, and no one seemed to care. In fact, a lot of my supervisors either also had tattoos or would compliment me on them and ask about their significance. I think that the corporate world is changing, and employers are realizing that his generation is more than willing to work a 9 to 5, but not a the expense of individuality,” Mulwani said.
Of course, a tattoo does require some thought, as the decision is a permanent one. Some students have shared some advice regarding a tattoo. I do advise some people to give their tattoos thought and consideration, especially with bigger pieces or tattoos that are more visible. However, I really like the recent trend in patchwork tattoos because it allows people to have more of a variety of tattoos. Having a combination of carefully and well-done tattoos along with a few random impulsive ones is really fun,” Mulwani added.
In the past, society has seemingly associated negative connotations with tattoos and those who have them. That perception has slowly changed, and people recognize, more than ever, tattoos are an expressive decision, that carries meaning and significance and is not necessarily a reflection of unprofessionalism in the person who chose to get inked, and display a part of their character on their sleeve.