For many college students, tattoos are more than just ink on skin they are a form of self-expression, a way to honor heritage, and a statement of individuality. Whether influenced by personal beliefs, cultural background, or simply an appreciation for body art, tattoos have become an increasingly common sight on campuses.

Anthony Rivas, a college student, sees his tattoos as a way to express his identity and roots.

“I have two tattoos. I got them to show my religion and where I come from, and my first tattoo was a rosary, and it means a lot to me because it was my first religious tattoo. I knew I was going to get this specific one since I was probably 10 years old.” Rivas said.

Rivas’ second tattoo, a half-sleeve, represents his cultural background.

“It’s not done yet, obviously, but the half-sleeve is the Guatemalan national bird with the Mayan temple from Guatemala, and my tattoos help express myself because they show where I come from, and I know that nobody has the same tattoos as me.” Rivas said.

For many students, tattoos start as a single piece of body art but quickly turn into a passion. That was the case for Borna Kisasondi, who got his first tattoo at just 16 years old.

“Being 16, tattoos were so cool to me, so I decided to get tattooed as well,” Kisasondi said.

Kisasondi first tattoo was deeply personal. “My first tattoo was dedicated to my mother and my sister, and also my second one is based on Slavic mythology.” Kisasondi said.

Now 21, Kisasondi has fully embraced tattoos as part of his identity. “Once you do your first one, you get hooked, so yeah, I will get more,” Kisasondi said.

While Kisasondi’s family was initially hesitant about his tattoos, they have since become more accepting.

“They are not the biggest fans. There was much more tension about it before, but now that I am 21, it became my own thing, so they are just trying to respect my decisions,” Kisasondi said.

Travon Hegler-Wright has taken his love for tattoos even further, accumulating eight so far.

“I got tattoos because I started to like how they feel after my first one, they all just represent me and the type of person I am, except one that has someone’s dates who passed.” Hegler-Wright said.

Although some families are wary of tattoos, Hegler-Wright said his loved ones have been supportive.

“I believe my family likes my tattoos. They know I wouldn’t put anything crazy on my body,” Hegler-Wright said.

Across college campuses, tattoos are becoming more accepted and even celebrated. Whether they represent religious beliefs, family heritage, or personal interests, tattoos allow students to make a statement about who they are. Some carefully plan their designs for years, while others take a more spontaneous approach.

“I don’t know. I just see something cool and want to put it on my skin, so why not? “We won’t live forever.” Kisasondi said.

As the popularity of tattoos continues to grow, they remain a permanent reminder of the stories, identities, and passions that define each individual. For students like Rivas, Kisasondi, and Hegler-Wright, their tattoos are more than just ink they are a part of who they are.