University Students Embrace AI, But Career Concerns Remain
By Wafric - Inventions
WafricNews – june 7, 2025
From lecture halls to library desks, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept — it’s part of everyday university life. But the big question students and scholars alike are asking is: has AI made higher education better or just more complicated?
Across the globe, many students say AI has revolutionized how they study. In a recent international survey, a large number admitted to using AI to help them write essays, brainstorm ideas, or break down difficult topics. But even as they embrace it, they’re also worried — especially about how it might affect their job prospects after graduation.
One student, Sunjaya Phillips, 22, from Worcestershire, says AI has been a game-changer in her university journey. Studying marketing communications at Oxford Brookes University, she said that tools like ChatGPT gave her the confidence to structure her essays and explore ideas faster.
Sunjaya Phillips is currently on her placement year whilst studying at Oxford Brookes
“Sometimes you’re stuck for a whole day. But with AI, you get prompts and ideas in 30 minutes,” she said. “It definitely transformed my academic experience.”
At Oxford Brookes, she added, lecturers are open about how AI can be used ethically to enhance learning — not replace it.
But not everyone uses it wisely. Other students have admitted to using AI to cheat, with some saying they later regretted it.
Experts urge balance, not shortcuts
Dr Charlie Simpson, a senior lecturer in sport and exercise science, says AI’s influence on education is everywhere now. He sees its value when used correctly — like helping students focus on deeper learning — but warns against outsourcing critical thinking to machines.
“If students are just using AI to get a degree without real learning, then it defeats the purpose,” he said.
At Henley Business School, Professor Keiichi Nakata, Director of AI at the World of Work Institute, echoed a similar sentiment. While AI is a powerful tool, it’s only as useful as how responsibly it’s used.
“Used well, AI helps students develop skills. Used lazily, it robs them of growth,” he warned.
Students curious, but concerned
A study by student housing provider Yugo, involving over 7,000 students from the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia, found that 44% of UK students are excited about AI — and about the same number already use it in their studies. But 78% also fear it could take away jobs in the future.
Phillips, however, remains optimistic. She sees AI not as a threat, but as a support system.
“We need to shift our perspective,” she said. “AI isn’t here to replace us. It’s here to support us.”
Prof Nakata agrees, saying AI skills will soon be as important as knowing how to use a computer. Employers will expect it, and those who learn to use it well will stand out.
“The ability to use AI tools appropriately will help students thrive in the workplace,” he said.
The future of learning?
As AI continues to evolve, one thing is clear — university education is changing fast. Whether that change ends up empowering students or diluting real learning will depend on how responsibly both universities and students embrace the technology.
One thing’s for sure: in the classrooms of the future, knowing how to use AI wisely might be just as important as what you study.
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