Tattoos and piercings have been around for thousands of years. In the past, they have been symbols of culture and religious customs, but in the modern era, including at B-CC, tattoos and piercings do not have one singular meaning or interpretation.
Most people who get tattoos and piercings do so to express personal style and artistry. Tattoos are like art with the body as a canvas, while piercings can be worn as fashion statements. When asked for her opinion on piercings, B-CC senior Madison Kellier — who has pierced ears — stated “[piercings] let people express themselves how they want to.”
Kellier also expressed that cultural norms impacted her decision to pierce her ears. “I was in like second grade, all my friends were getting their ears pierced, so I really wanted to get my ears pierced.”
Another reason for piercings is cultural heritage. B-CC Sophomore Sanchi Halper said, “I was actually born in India and so it’s like a traditional thing … [so] they just like pierced my ears.”
While piercings are common for many high school students, tattoos are rarer. However, there are still plenty of people dreaming of their first experience with ink and needles. B-CC freshman Milann Tchantchou stated, “I definitely want to get a tattoo when I’m older, and I want to get more ear piercings.” Though the big issue with tattoos is that they are mostly permanent. When asked if she feared regretting a tattoo, Tchantchou stated, “Yeah. That’s why I want to make it small if I get one.”
This is a struggle Ms. Decarolis, a B-CC calculus teacher, knows all too well. She herself has had to get a tattoo covered up. Her advice to young people wanting tattoos is, “Wait. I didn’t. I got my first one as a senior in high school. That’s the one I had covered up. So my advice would be wait, ‘cause forever is real serious.”
In the end, tattoos and piercings are deeply personal choices that require thought and responsibility. As with any decision, especially one that can last a lifetime, it’s important to take the time to fully understand the risks, rewards, and meanings behind it. Choose wisely and remember: your body, your future.
