The Rise of AI in University Life: A Student’s Perspective

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a topic for tech lectures; it’s becoming an integral part of university life. From academic support to campus operations, AI is reshaping how we learn, work, and connect as students. For many of us, tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly have become trusted companions during late-night study sessions or frantic essay deadlines. But while AI opens doors to new opportunities, it also introduces challenges we must navigate carefully. So how does this transformation impact us, and where should we draw the line between useful tools and over-reliance?

One of the main advantages of AI for students is the assistance in research and in writing. A survey – conducted by myself – revealed that the most used AI tool is ChatGPT, but it also reflected a common use of DeepL, an AI-based translator, and Grammarly, which uses technology to correct spelling mistakes. During this survey, the 80 student-respondents also stated that AI tools have improved their academic work. Asking ChatGPT to make your essay sound more “professional” or using Grammarly to improve your sentence structure are just some examples that may have brought about this impression. However, most students stated that they still prefer to learn from human interaction.

Another advantage of AI tools concerns the aspect of personal learning. Language-learning apps like Duolingo and AI-powered tutoring platforms can provide targeted exercises. The AI can adapt to individual learning styles by offering customized lessons based on one’s progress. It is even more beneficial that these Apps – unlike school or university with limited office hours – are available 24/7. Consequently, students are able to have a more flexible study schedule and AI can help with their questions, solve their problems and organise their notes any time of the day. This can also lead to a more stress-reduced university life and to more efficient time management. 

But AI tools do not only bring advantages. Most students stated in the survey that they are concerned about privacy risks that new technology brings, and many are afraid that they will become too dependent on the use of AI. Over-reliance is one of the biggest problems that AI is causing for students. You don’t want to write an essay? Ask ChatGPT to write one for you! You don’t want to read a 50-page long article? Ask AI to summarise it! You don’t want to translate a notification in a foreign language? Ask DeepL to do it! 

It has become evident that students do less work themselves and use technology instead. A lot of students also stated in the survey that they use AI tools on a daily basis. This phenomenon can be called “guided thinking” since many young people first use AI to do a task, and then work on the basis of the AI outcome on their task. The dependence on AI-generated answers can weaken critical thinking and problem-solving skills. An outcome might be that a lot of individuals struggle with exams and real-world applications if they rely too much on technology instead of humans.

Furthermore, the inaccuracy and misinformation that AI still causes is problematic as well. It is scientifically proven that these tools are not always reliable and can produce incorrect or misleading information. ChatGPT, for example, hallucinates a lot of facts which cannot be looked up, although newer versions do give links to the extracted information. Hence, the blind trust in AI-generated responses can lead to academic misunderstandings and should always be double-checked.

As AI-generated content becomes more sophisticated, universities are facing new challenges in academic integrity. Many students use AI to assist with assignments, but where should the line be drawn between legitimate help and academic dishonesty? Some students may use AI to generate entire essays, which raises concerns about plagiarism and originality.

Universities are still working on policies regarding AI use, and the lack of clear guidelines creates confusion. Some professors encourage AI as a research tool, while others strictly prohibit its use in assignments. Until clear rules are established, students must be mindful of how they use AI to avoid unintentionally violating academic integrity policies.

AI is a powerful tool, but it should complement traditional learning methods rather than operate as a substitute for them. While it can enhance efficiency and accessibility, students must remain active learners, engaging in discussions, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving. Universities, in turn, must establish clear policies on AI use, promote ethical guidelines, and provide equal access to AI resources. The future of AI in university life depends on how we use it. If applied thoughtfully, AI can revolutionize education in positive ways. However, students must remain cautious, ensuring that AI supports—not replaces—their learning.

What do you think about AI in education? Should universities encourage or limit its use?