Some women wear makeup, others do not. Do women that don’t wear it feel more comfortable and secure than those who do? Does being an empowered woman mean running around with no bra and no makeup waving a feminist flag? Absolutely not! Much like women themselves, self-confidence comes in many forms, shapes, sizes and colors.
With March being Women’s History Month, I decided to do some investigating around WVWC’s campus. The women you are about to read about are all beautiful, unique individuals who come from all walks of life. Here’s what these 12 ladies have to say about what makes them feel empowered and why:
1. Lauren Clower
A sophomore biology major here at WVWC, Lauren is looking forward to chasing her dream career as a physician’s assistant. Though she loves playing with makeup, she has no problem with being all natural, especially when she’s racing away at track meets!
2. Carina Perichino
Freshman, vocal performance major
“What makes me feel most empowered as a woman is my voice because I feel beautiful when I sing.”
3. Hannah Pulley
Freshman, athletic training major
“This picture makes me feel empowered because, as a WVWC lacrosse player, I get to do what I love and I’m really lucky to get to represent such a great school alongside such great people while I do it.”
4. Brooke Hinzman
Freshman, psychology major
“I honestly don’t understand why people put down girls for wearing makeup; most of us do it because it’s fun—not to impress or because we feel insecure without it. For me, it’s a sure-fire way to relax and be creative with different looks. Looking fierce as hell in the process is only an added bonus.”
5. Brehana Scott
Senior, public relations major
“Wrapping my hair like my ancestors have done for centuries makes me feel empowered, because I remember them for their sacrifice and for the long way we still have to go. Wearing a little mascara and a bright red lip makes me feel beautiful because it’s simple but gives me that extra bit of pizazz!”
6. Sarah Smith
Sophomore, English and musical theatre major
“I feel the most empowered when I feel that my presence is meaningful. We never know who we might inspire. And there is nothing more rewarding than inspiring ourselves to become an even better version of ourselves.”
7. Carly Brand
Freshman, graphic design major
“I feel empowered as a woman when I’m able to express myself through art and just be myself.”
8. Lauren Spadafore
Freshman, exercise science major
“I feel most empowered when I’m laughing, which happens to be 99 percent of the time. Even when things get hard to handle, my friends and family are always there to make sure I am wearing a smile on my face. Love and support are a huge part of my confidence in all I do in life.”
9. Carson Cunningham
Senior, public relations major
“I think my self-confidence and my accomplishments thus far in my life all play a major role in making me feel powerful as a woman.”
10. Sarah Hamrick
Freshman, nursing major
“I am proud to feel empowered as a woman because being empowered allows me to feel beautiful, be confident in myself, and strive to accomplish my goals!”
11. Emily Kroll
Freshman, accounting major
“I feel most empowered when I’m surrounded by my sisters. Their uplifting enthusiasm and never-ending support make me feel like I can achieve anything.”
12. Maya Eberhart
Freshman, musical theatre major
“Knowing my self worth makes me feel empowered as a woman because I’ve learned early on how to respect myself and others around me. Each day, I am learning to love and treat myself with the necessary respect that I deserve.”
13. And then there’s me:
Freshman, chemistry major
“I feel empowered most in one of two situations: either when I am on stage performing or when I am succeeding academically. I think of myself as a unique individual because I have passion for science as well as art. Not many people can say the same.”
Just remember, collegiette: no matter where you come from or what you do, chase your passions, embrace your beauty, and let it shine. Show the world who you are and do not be ashamed. That, my lovely friends, is the true meaning of being beautiful.