The Importance of Image to Boston College Students

Abstract

There is an image associated with BC students that most, if not all, undergraduates can describe. Though the more superficial explanation only includes expensive preppy brand names, Apple products, and working out at the Plex, the BC image is more multifaceted. A study of consumerism, fashion, status, narcissism, collective consciousness, the self and the generalized other, and even Jesuit ideals provides the theoretical background to the analysis. The data were collected through focus group interviews, surveys, pictures, and observations to form a complete idea of BC image. This thesis explores the many sources of this image, its definition, and the extent to which students identify with it.