What rebellious rock 'n' roll and bell-bottom jeans were to the kids of the 60s, the art of body piercing and tattooing is to today's youth.
According to a 2006 survey by Pew Research Center, 36 percent of Americans aged 18 to 25 - 40 percent aged 26 to 40 - have at least one tattoo. With nearly two of every five Americans under 40 having gone under the needle at least once, it seems clear that this generation has become more accepting of body art.
But can older generations, which still retain much control over the employment of future college graduates, see past the body art to the qualifications of the individual?
Answers seem varied.
Some employers might be more lenient toward the idea.
Matt Benefiel, a marketing representative for Gordon Food Service, said it depends on the type of work for which a person is applying.
"It really relates to vocation," Benfiel said. "White-collar professions and health-related jobs probably wouldn't allow it. But if you were working at home or involved in the arts, they would probably be more accepting."
Adam Vanchoff, a booking agent for Promowest Live, said he believes body art is very acceptable within the entertainment industry.
"I see tattoos and piercings every day," he said. "It's all second nature to me at this point. If I'm an employer looking to fill a position, I am going to hire the most qualified person. If he happens to have a bone sticking through his nose but can prove himself as an asset then I'm all for it."
Josh Jackson, chief editor of Paste Magazine, said he has mixed feelings on the issue.
"(Body art) says that they're not looking for safety and security in a job, that they care (more) about doing something interesting," he said. "It might also say their work is not a primary concern in life."
Students at Ohio State choose to be tattooed or pierced for a number of reasons, and most do not believe it will affect their future chances for jobs.
"Honestly I don't see myself in a career where it will be a huge issue," said Rilla Harry, a junior in English. "The idea (exists) that drunken sailors are the only ones who have them. They (aren't) and I think employers recognize that."
Gina Grumbach, a sophomore in nursing, said she would not remove her tongue ring despite the concerns of working in health care.
"Just because people have body art doesn't mean they aren't just as qualified," she said. "Body art should be accepted by now."
Lindsay Hearts, a piercing artist at Evolved said the crowd there varies from people of all walks of life and, though the clientele is mostly college students, many older people have chosen to be pierced or tattooed.
"I think you can look however you want in the job situation if you're good at what you do," she said. "But ... I do think you should look presentable.
"Obviously if you had a safety pin out the side of your face I would have a problem as an employer, but if you're good at what you do I don't see a drawback."
Alexandra Coleman can be reached at coleman.367@osu.edu.
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