The future of college essays shifts as AI takes center stage
- The college essay has been a crucial part of college admissions since the mid-1960s, assessing student writing and character.
- Sally McGinty argues that the rise of AI influences the authenticity of essays, shifting focus toward achievement over personal narrative.
- The continued evolution of AI brings both opportunities and challenges for admissions processes, necessitating a thoughtful integration of technology.
In the ongoing evolution of college admissions, the college essay remains a central component, valued since the mid-1960s for its ability to assess a student's writing, thinking, and fit for a college. However, recent developments suggest that the essence of these essays may be changing due to the influence of artificial intelligence. Sally McGinty, a seasoned educator and author, discusses how AI tools could compromise the authenticity of student essays, shifting focus from personal narratives to AI-driven resumes. This trend raises questions about the future efficacy and relevance of traditional college essays in admissions processes. McGinty recalls her experience as a high school English teacher grappling with the challenge of evaluating countless essays without adequate feedback mechanisms in place. She reiterates the importance of knowing one's audience, a key aspect that the current college application process often overlooks. Her critique extends to the existing Common Application essay prompts, which she believes predominantly encourage students to showcase achievements, rather than their true selves. This 'bragging' culture may deter students from sharing their distinctive stories and viewpoints. The intersection of AI and higher education is notable, highlighted by a Stanford University study surveying 1,500 professionals regarding their views on AI's role in their work. About 46% of respondents indicated a preference for AI to automate repetitive tasks, indicating a desire for collaborative, rather than purely substitutive, technology. Institutions like Georgia State University and the University of Michigan are already integrating AI systems designed to support students through proactive reminders and virtual assistance in navigating college processes. These innovations have reported measurable successes, particularly in supporting low-income students. Despite significant advancements in AI technology within higher education, many institutions remain cautious about fully embracing these changes. There is a pressing need for clear guidelines on responsibly integrating AI, ensuring that both faculty and students are equipped to maximize its benefits without compromising the human element in education. As discussions on the future of admissions and the role of personal essays continue, a comprehensive understanding of these factors will be pivotal in shaping the landscape of college admissions and higher education at large.