David Kim, a computer science major at UNC-Chapel Hill, has submitted 326 job applications but has only reached the interview round for three of them. He believes the competitiveness in his field is due to both the economy and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Kim fears that AI will automate jobs and acknowledges that adapting to the evolving job market influenced by AI will be necessary. Sarayu Thondapu, a sophomore studying economics and political science, worries about AI's impact on legal professions. She is concerned that relying too heavily on AI will disconnect her from the reason she wanted to pursue law in the first place. Both Kim and Thondapu are incorporating technology and additional studies into their education to remain competitive.

The value of college degrees in the era of AI is being debated, as alternative programs like Google's career certificates and Duke University's AI Master of Engineering program are emerging. Jared Bailey, a student in Duke's AI program, believes that pursuing fields with a fair return on investment is still possible. Some individuals, like editor Erin Servais, have embraced AI and incorporated it into their careers. Servais teaches editors how to utilize AI programs like ChatGPT, emphasizing the need for human oversight and ensuring quality and factual content. Scott Geier, a professor at UNC-CH, suggests that students need to work with AI in a way that gives them an edge to remain relevant and competitive in the job market. Ultimately, while AI may take on more tasks, human involvement and adaptability remain essential.