Think Before You Ink!

Getting an extreme tattoo may not be a good idea for college studentsby Jissel Garcia.Once considered counterculture, tattoos have become a form of self-expression that has powered its way into mainstream culture. Whether free will or religion, the physical mark bared by its wearers is undeniably permanent. According to a recent poll from the Armstrong Team Tattoo Attitude Survey, college student populations have experienced a significant uptick in tattooing. The survey shows that 69 percent of 766 adults obtained their first tattoo between the ages 18 to 22.  “It sounds cheesy, but I felt like I needed to physically represent something that I always felt was a part of me,” says Angelo Hall, 23, a City College senior, speaking about the tattoos covering his entire arm. “I don’t regret it, but I do have to hide it every time I go on an interview.”Such sentiments between people inside mainstream corporation and organizations and those outside of them. As more and more students itch for self-expression, increasingly, supervisors and managers draw the line.New research shows that 23 percent of college students have one to three tattoos, and though society has made body ink more acceptable, the “real” world may not be on the same page.  By law, employers have the right to implement desired dress policies in order to properly protect the legitimate interest of the business. However, these policies must equally apply to both genders. Stipulations on religious markings are also up for debate, making employment decisions more and more complicated.Even if a tattoo is fine for now, as the rocky economy continues to spiral downward, does it make sense for students to have extreme ink?“When it comes down to it, I think it all depends on the position you’re applying for, and the image of the company,” says Nancy Friedland, 67, owner of a privately owned medical agency. “I don’t like them. Especially in this field, there isn’t much leeway in regards to tattoos. No one wants to be go to a medical practice and be attended by a person covered in tattoos. It doesn’t seem hygienic." How about everywhere else?“I don’t think some of these students think ahead," says Amina, a junior at CCNY and employee of the Career Services Center who asked to be identified by her first name only. "Many of them are probably unsure of the job they want to end up being in, and so they make in-the-moment decisions that, years later, don’t always turn out being the right one."She adds that initial impressions count. On first impression, many employers see a tattoo as unprofessional," she explains. "To a certain extent, however, a tattoo may be overlooked depending on its size and content.”In today’s global marketplace, it is safe to say that most employers are realizing the importance of providing a work environment that welcomes employees from various backgrounds. And in creative fields, being young, hip and tattooed can be a plus. But some students aren't taking chances. “I have three tattoos, but none that can be easily seen. I never wanted to encounter any issues in my workplace down the line,” says Amanda Betina, a sophomore at CCNY. “I don’t think work ethic should be judged on what tattoos I have, but I can’t be dumb. We all know the world doesn’t work that way.” --