Job, college and internship interviews have common questions, but one tends to stick out more than others. It involves personal bias, memories and dedication. The question is about tattoos and piercings.

Not long ago, tattoos and piercings were taboo, but now trigger intrigue rather than disgust because there tends to be a deeper meaning behind them. Also, a tattoo’s meaning depends on the person.

Deonta’s tattoos consist of Bible verse Philippians 4:13 and a series of symbols standing for “God is greater than the ups and downs.”

Also, tattoos in the workplace are accepted more often.

English teacher and Gay-Straight Alliance advisor Erin Otten has two tattoos, and neither of them affect her ability to get a job.

“I was very confident in my professionalism and my skill set during the interview for my teaching job; however, I did cover up all of my tattoos so it wasn’t an issue,” Otten said.

Otten has a tattoo of the outline of Ohio with a heart in the middle on her ankle, and a compass on her forearm, which she got after a backpacking trip through Europe. Both represent a roots and wings concept- staying close to home, but travelling to expand one’s “wings.”

As common as tattoos are today, some people have already decided not to get any in the future.

“Not only do my parents not want me to get a tattoo or piercing, but I don’t want one either. They aren’t professional [in my opinion],” Sydney D. ‘20 said.

Senior Madelena H. has two tattoos, and she associates them with her adulthood and independence.

“I’m 18 years old. I am allowed to put whatever I want on my body, no matter what my mom says. She thinks I’ll regret them when I’m 80, but now I like them and that’s what matters,” Madelena said.

However tattoos and piercings are perceived, they are more accepted today. Each has a meaning deeper than what’s seen on the surface, and that’s what important.