Student Emily Pacheco from Case Western Reserve University expresses her views on students' application of artificial intelligence
In the world of college admissions, technology is playing an increasingly significant role, and one of the most notable tools being employed by students is AI, such as ChatGPT. Emily Pacheco, the associate director of undergraduate admission at Case Western Reserve University, shares this perspective.
According to Pacheco, students are using AI technologies like ChatGPT much like a life coach or "thought partner." It helps them make decisions about their lives, particularly with navigating the college admission process, including exploring options and understanding requirements.
One of the ways students leverage ChatGPT is in essay writing. The AI can help generate ideas, draft outlines, and refine language in college application essays and personal statements. It offers useful feedback on grammar, coherence, and style, improving writing quality. However, it's crucial for students to use the tool thoughtfully, as the essay’s purpose is to authentically convey their personal stories, passions, and expertise—something AI cannot genuinely produce.
Some platforms like GradGPT integrate AI to help students optimize their essays based on college-specific rubrics and admission criteria. These tools offer instant feedback, identify critical errors, and allow students to compare their essays against those of admitted students from prestigious universities. This helps students refine their applications with expert-like guidance at a lower cost than traditional consultants.
AI chatbots are also used to answer questions, send reminders about deadlines, and share resources, saving students time and guiding them step-by-step through the admissions journey. This practical help can reduce stress and improve organization as they manage multiple application components.
While AI is a powerful aid, experts caution students not to over-rely on it, especially for demonstrating subject expertise or personal insight. Admissions officers want to see genuine argumentation about why applicants belong in a program, which only comes from the student’s authentic knowledge and experiences. Using AI irresponsibly can backfire if it compromises the uniqueness or accuracy of the application.
In summary, ChatGPT is primarily used by students as a thought partner, writing coach, and logistical assistant during college admissions. It helps generate ideas, improve essays, manage tasks, and make informed decisions, but it must be employed ethically to support, not supplant, the student's authentic voice and story.
Artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, is not only used by students as a writing coach, helping to generate ideas and refine language in college application essays, but also as a thought partner, assisting students in making informed decisions throughout the college admission process. However, it's essential for students to use AI responsibly, as the application's purpose is to authentically convey their personal stories, passions, and expertise, which AI cannot genuinely produce.
