Stanford grads split on AI, worried about jobs and ethics

Graduates at Stanford University in the US are split on artificial intelligence. Some are worried about jobs, education, and the environment, while others see AI as a tool to explore the universe. Even at this innovation hub in Silicon Valley, there's pushback against AI.

Computer science grad Iftekha Hassan is optimistic, calling AI a tool for learning and adaptation. But Earth systems grad Atash Heer fears an AI-driven future and says current development isn't ethical, hoping art stays human-made. He also notes AI could help train climate models for resilience work.

AI is already affecting job prospects. A New York Fed analysis shows recent grads are finding it harder to get jobs, and a Stanford study found lower employment levels in AI-vulnerable industries. Software development is hit hard, with rumors of CS grads struggling, though Stanford has no official data.

Students worry about 'cognitive offloading.' Former TA Lucy Zimmerman saw gaps between homework and exam scores, suspecting AI use. Exams now include proctoring and oral tests. Psychology grad Colby Haran dislikes AI's environmental impact, citing data centers' energy use, and wants slower development.