College Students Navigate AI’s Influence on Future Careers
As AI continues to reshape industries, students’ feelings about the technology are complex.
For students entering their careers, awareness of AI’s role is vital, yet many approach it with skepticism. Rebeca Damico, a 21-year-old public relations student at the University of Utah, experienced firsthand the mixed signals surrounding AI when her professors imposed restrictions against using tools like ChatGPT, labeling it a form of cheating.
“For me, as someone who follows the rules, I was very scared,” Damico said. “I was like, oh, I can’t, you know, even think about using it, because they’ll know.” This tension highlights the internal struggle students feel between adhering to academic integrity and the allure of AI’s efficiency in academia.
Mixed Messages from Academia and Industry
Though Damico and her peers are warned against AI in their coursework, the job market increasingly demands proficiency in AI tools. A report by the World Economic Forum indicates that 75% of workers utilize AI in their roles, signaling a clear shift towards technology-savvy job expectations.
Institutional Responses to AI
Universities are grappling with how to handle AI’s presence in education. The University of Utah has implemented guidelines that monitor AI usage, treating uncredited use as plagiarism. Some professors adopt strict policies, while others explore AI’s educational potential.
Dr. Virginia Byrne, an associate professor at Morgan State University, noted, “The university allows professors to figure out what works best for them when it comes to AI.” This flexibility may help students integrate AI positively, providing them with valuable skills for their future careers.
Student Perspectives on AI’s Role
Students like Shriya Boppana from Duke University see AI as integral to their future. She utilizes AI daily and recognizes it as a tool for efficiency. However, the unique voice required in her writing remains a limitation she believes needs addressing.
Conversely, Parris Haynes of Morgan State remains skeptical, arguing, “I don’t really see much of a space for AI to relieve me of the burden of any academic assignments or potential career tasks in regards to philosophy.” This sentiment reflects a broader hesitance among students about fully relying on AI.
The Future of Work and Education
As generational perspectives shift, educators must strike a balance between guidance and exploration. Experts like Theresa Fesinstine emphasize the importance of understanding AI’s potential benefits and risks within professional settings.
Ultimately, the current generation of students is likely to shape and be shaped by AI technologies as they embark on their careers, navigating a landscape that is both promising and uncertain.
