LaPhoenix Warner-McDonald

LaPhoenix Warner-McDonald

First-Year | Major: General Science and Pre-Education

I have had many different hairstyles. My mom wouldn’t let me cut my hair when I was growing up. Once, I could, I cut it short. I used to have dreadlocks, but I buzzed my head. Cutting my hair short was huge, but once I did, I was grounded with myself. I realized that my hair had been something to hide behind, like a mask or a shield. I don't feel like that anymore. My lack of hair has become my identity. It was interesting to notice that people tended to be more comfortable with me when my hair was long. I also noticed that some people wouldn’t even look at me once I had a shaved head. People rely so much on first impressions.

Photograph by Ugochukwu Akabike