Students at the University of Mississippi are back from summer break, and for many of us, the start of classes is a looming cloud of anxiety. While there are various tips and tricks out there to alleviate back-to-school stress, my new favorite strategy is getting a brand-new hairstyle.
Imagine walking onto campus and surprising all your friends with a fresh new look to kick off the semester. This year, I made the leap and went with a peach-colored bob, and I absolutely love it. Getting ready each morning with my fun, fresh look gives me the energy boost I need to get out of bed and tackle the day.
Psychologists call this a combination of the “fresh start effect” and “enclothed cognition.” By using a new semester to reset your identity, your mindset is directly altered, boosting your confidence. Sometimes, when I walk into a difficult class, the only thing brightening my day is my hairstyle — and, let’s be real, it is probably giving everyone else a boost of energy, too.
Hair is a powerful way to express yourself. It allows you to shape your identity and decide which version of yourself you want to be on any given day. Some days, I embrace my natural curls, while on others, I wear my hair straight for a different feel. Even if you do not want a drastic change, like moving from dark brown to bright orange, a subtle change like highlights can give you the confidence you need for the semester ahead.
Other University of Mississippi students have also been changing up their hair for the start of the semester.
Nes Daniel is a junior anthropology and film studies double major from Ocean Springs, Miss.
“I think changing up your hair can be refreshing and helpful for marking a new chapter in your life, even something small, like bangs or a trim,” Daniel said.
For others, a new look is a fun way to explore creative freedom and meet new people.
Junior biological sciences major Jordan de Jesus from Woodbine, Ga., said that hair is a way for people to express themselves.
“I’ve been finding it to be a social communicator in an interesting way. It definitely impacts the way a lot of people perceive me,” de Jesus said. “Since I wasn’t able to do anything fun with my hair in high school, now I can, so why not indulge my whimsy?”
A bold new look is a conversation starter to break the ice with classmates during these first few weeks. Your hair has the ability to be a unique social indicator and can help you build new connections across campus.
It is easy to worry that a drastic cut or dye job will change who you are, but what you stand for will not change just because you bleached your scalp. A hair change is not permanent, so do not be afraid to try something new! Take advantage of your twenties, embrace change and try that style you’ve been eyeing — you may just fall in love with it.
Vidya Adlakha is a senior biological sciences major from Ocean Springs, Miss.
