Last August, I realized just how broke I was, and began that dreaded job search looking for a simple way to make some money as a busy college student. While thinking about what kind of job I wanted, I thought about how I love the store Aerie, and thought “why not?!”. I have now been working there for 6 months, and as I think back to my many shifts, long hours of dealing with rude customers, and having to transfer locations during the holiday season, it was truly all worth it.
One thing I love about Aerie is how empowered I feel every time I work a shift there. I wear sports bras and crop tops to work everytime, and I don’t have any fears of being body shamed. As a somewhat bigger girl, it never occured to me that I would be able to do that without being scared, and now I wear whatever I want! And that feeling it gives me is SO euphoric.
I also am surrounded by wonderful women who are as passionate as me about body positivity. Everytime one of us tries something on, we all hype her up and make her feel empowered. The fitting rooms are also decked out in positive quotes and messages, saying things like “every body is a bikini body” and “you rock that, girl!” Bra shopping and bathing suit shopping can be a very overwhelming and scary experience for some, and it empowers me that I can help a person feel more comfortable in their own skin.
Being surrounded by positivity has made me a more positive person, and it is so empowering to feel beautiful in my own skin. Aerie has helped me gain more confidence in who I am, and I am so happy I get to share this confidence with the world.
HCXO,
Bri