Graduates are booing pep talks on AI at college commencements :: WRAL.com

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At several college commencements, graduates have shown significant discomfort with discussions about artificial intelligence (AI), frequently responding with booing when the topic arises.
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt faced repeated jeers during his keynote address to University of Arizona graduates, despite his efforts to acknowledge students’ fears regarding the future impact of AI on their careers.
Many students view AI as a threat, with polls showing that about 70% see it as detrimental to their job prospects, and there is a growing negative attitude among Generation Z towards AI.
The unease towards AI at commencements reflects broader student anxiety, with students trying to determine which skills and majors may become obsolete due to AI advancements.
Speakers attempting to highlight the positive aspects of AI, such as real estate executive Gloria Caulfield and music executive Scott Borchetta, have met with hostility from graduates.
The discontent also stems from a challenging job market, where graduates face high unemployment rates and AI’s role in job requirements adds to their apprehensions.
Despite attempts by AI supporters like Chris Duffey to frame AI as a tool that students can shape for their benefit, many find these messages unrelatable and self-serving, contributing to the overall negative reception.

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