Dreadlocks?

every since Bob Marley made Dreads Famous, society has attached a negative connotation with dreadlocks. I just finished my first year as a college student and find myself looking at things from a different perspective, now. although i do not care what others think, or at least i try not too, how would someone with dreadlocks be viewed... i mean, when you see an african american with dreads, whats the first thing that comes to mind. i am growing my hair out in hopes of dreading it but i was curious to find out how others viewed this.... whats your impression of an individual with dreads, in the work force, at social gatherings, etc.... to better sum the question, will dreadlocks take away my initial identity?