One of the perks of turning 18 years old is access to the club scene, voting and even ordering unique items off of infomercials; however, another important bonus is entry into the world of tattoos.

Although not every college student dreams of having a permanent design somewhere on his or her body, there are many who jump at the opportunity.

But why? How will they feel in the future? Are there any regrets?

Students such as Erica Fairchild, a freshman in communication, have always wanted to get one.

“The reason I wanted a tattoo was because I felt I could be as creative as I wanted,” Fairchild said. “I wanted to be different from other people and I felt that getting a tattoo allowed me to step outside of the box and out of my comfort zone.”

Ashley Peele, a sophomore in biological sciences, said, “I always thought tattoos were one of those things that could be really creative depending on their originality and significance.”

A problem that is associated with tattoos comes up when looking for a job in a professional field.

Many employers will not hire someone with a visible tattoo, and if they do hire that person, then the employee must be able to cover it completely while at the office.

A way some N.C. State students have approached this dilemma is by choosing a spot out of sight or easily coverable with jewelry or clothing.

Peele chose the inside of her left wrist.

“I can cover it up with bracelets or make-up when I need to,” Peele said.

Bryan Hum, a freshman in international studies, has the word “family” tattooed in Chinese calligraphy at the top of his back because he “didn’t want something visible in case of interviews or jobs.”

Byron Wallace, tattoo artist and owner of Warlock’s Tattoos and Body Piercings, is also aware of this issue.

He sits down and discusses with the client about location because he said placement is very important.

So after the deed is done and the high wears off, do students regret the decision? Fairchild, Peele and Hum all reply with a resounding “no.”

They all feel like it was the right decision for them and that it gives them the chance to be closer to someone or to express how they feel.

Fairchild maintains that it is not something she flaunts, but it’s also not something she denies.

“I sort of feel proud of myself for going through with it,” Fairchild said.

Peele’s tattoo was inspired by her grandmother’s words of wisdom, “Live by faith, not by sight.”

She doesn’t think she will ever regret it because she said it was not a drunken mistake or the aftermath of a rebellious streak.

“It means something really important to me,” Peele said.

Those who do end up regretting their body art, however, should know that there are ways, albeit expensive ways, to get a tattoo removed.

“There’s dermabrasion, which I don’t suggest because it leaves a scar,” Wallace warned. “Laser removal is very popular now, but you need to find a good laser technician.”

Trust is key in the tattoo business.

So whether it is your first time getting inked or your seventh — do the research, choose wisely, talk to the artist and go for it.

Fairchild’s advice for those with the craving for ink: “Get something that you know you will be happy with. Once it is on, it is on for good!”