The emergence of accessible and affordable AI tools like ChatGPT has significantly impacted both workplaces and classrooms. However, many educational institutions still struggle to implement clear and effective policies for their use. Several college students we spoke to mentioned that most of their professors, uncertain about how to respond to AI, have opted to ban it altogether an increasingly common reaction.

Meanwhile, broader educational challenges continue to emerge. Many students enter college without having read full books or written extended essays. Now, with AI at their fingertips, they’re outsourcing more and more of their learning.

But AI is not the root cause of these issues. Rather, it’s accelerating problems that have been building for years. Two major trends have played a significant role:

• The commercialization of higher education, where students are treated more like consumers than learners.

• An overreliance on standardized testing, particularly in the U.S., which often sidelines the development of critical thinking and lifelong learning skills.

Adding to this shift, changes in the job market and the influence of online culture have made traditional career paths less appealing. Many young people now view content creation and social media as viable alternatives to college degrees. As a result, higher education is often seen more as a stepping stone to credentials than a meaningful developmental journey.

Yet, despite these challenges, the value of a college education remains strong especially in a fast-changing job market. The true benefit lies not in memorizing content, but in building essential skills through rigorous academic work.

Consider computer science: even at leading tech companies like Google, where AI generates a quarter of the code, knowing specific programming languages is less important than the ability to think critically, solve problems, and apply logic. These core skills are what prepare students to adapt and thrive.

Although we can’t predict the future with certainty, one thing is clear: the path to success is no longer straightforward. College should be a place where students develop resilience, curiosity, and the ability to engage with complex ideas. Through challenging coursework, they learn to tolerate frustration, explore big questions, and construct solid arguments all critical abilities in today’s world.

Too often, students are criticized for adapting logically to an education system that devalues deep learning. Instead of placing blame, educators should focus on making the purpose of college work clear—by designing assignments that emphasize skills over memorization, and by having honest conversations about the value of education.

Research shows that when students understand why they’re being challenged and when educators treat them with respect—they rise to meet those expectations. As AI continues to evolve, timeless skills like critical thinking, perseverance, and ethical reflection will remain essential.

College should be more than a credential. It’s a formative experience that helps students build the mindset and capabilities they need for a future no one can fully predict.