Over the past few years the growing popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked debates across classrooms and campuses. What once seemed futuristic has quickly become a part of daily student life. However, not everyone sees AI the same way. Students have a range of opinions both positive and negative about how AI is shaping education, the environment, and even future careers.

I asked students around campus to see what their thoughts were on AI. The anonymous conversations that I had with students lead more towards the topic of generative AI and how this is impacting them. Many students embrace AI as a helpful academic tool. They say it makes schoolwork faster, more efficient, and less stressful. “It just makes life easier,” one student shared. Others appreciate how AI enhances performance and encourages creativity. Tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly for example can help break down complex material or check work before turning in assignments. For these students, AI feels like a “personal tutor” that is available, patient, and ready to help.

On the other hand, a group of students expressed concerns. Generative AI raises questions about authenticity and overall long term effects. “It destroys the atmosphere,” one student commented. Another explained that it can make learning feel less human. Some worry about AI’s larger impact on society, such as the loss of jobs in creative fields or even inaccuracies in serious areas like court cases.

Overall, I received far more positive than negative feedback about AI from students on the IUK campus. It seems that students are able to easily recognize AI’s both promise and potential problems. For now we can see and discuss how AI is becoming a defining part of the modern college experience.