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Artificial intelligence (AI) has influenced our culture and reshaped how industries operate, including the nature of many jobs. College students can benefit from understanding these shifts as they select a major and prepare for their job and internship search.

The emergence of AI can feel intimidating because it may impact your student’s chosen career paths. Yet, these technological changes can also be exciting and open the door to new career opportunities.

Improving job efficiencyÌý

As companies explore and invest in AI, repetitive tasks may become automated to increase productivity. Reducing the time it takes to complete tasks like data entry, content writing, research and customer service can give workers more time to focus on tasks that require higher-level thinking, like problem-solving, creativity and strategy.ÌýÌý

For example, a doctor could use AI tools to research health symptoms to find a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for patients. Marketers could use AI to analyze data and identify trends to create optimized campaigns and sales strategies.Ìý

The consensus is that AI won’t cause a loss in the number of jobs but instead will cause a shift in how efficient people can be in their roles.ÌýÌý

Impacting job functionsÌý

AI is creating new job positions and changing the expectations for existing roles. Students interested in pursuing a career in AI will find continued opportunities across industries. Current data shows that less than 1% of job postings are AI-specific, meaning that the job focuses entirely on AI development. Still, these roles increased by 33% at the end of the last decade, with more growth ahead.Ìý

Companies now use AI across work functions. According to an assessment of jobs completed in fall 2023 by Career Services, the most common job categories that included AI in the job description were:Ìý

• Artificial intelligence and machine learningÌý
• Cloud and technology servicesÌý
• Consulting and specialized rolesÌý
• Data and analyticsÌý
• Management and leadershipÌý
• Marketing and business developmentÌý
• Software development and engineeringÌý
• UI/UX and designingÌý

Requiring new skillsÌý

As AI evolves, the skills needed for some positions may change. The top technical skills for AI-specific jobs are machine learning, data science, software and business intelligence. However, in an ever-changing world, non-technical skills like leadership, management and innovation can help your student adapt as AI influences work.Ìý

Becoming familiar with specific software can still be helpful for students not interested in AI careers. While most people have heard of ChatGPT, today's tools may look completely different in a few years. Being proficient in AI systems can position students for success at work.Ìý

Your student can build skills now by practicing with AI when and where appropriate. Before using it in class, students should check out howÌýAI relates to the Honor Code. They can also use AI in their personal lives, for side hustles and at work (when and where appropriate).Ìý

Tap into campus resourcesÌý

Your student can find support for using AI in their job or internship search or with questions about how AI relates to their field of study or career path.ÌýCareer ServicesÌýoffers workshops, resources, tools and appointments with career advisors.ÌýÌý