One of the students participating in the Steinmetz Symposium poster session describes her research to onlookers.
From computer science to English, students are applying artificial intelligence tools to their studies and research, and in the process, learning how best to responsibly use this technology.
Claudia Porto '25
Major: Computer Science
Minor: Digital Media
Post-Union plans: Database systems or human-computer interaction (HCI)
Coursework has included a class on natural language processing, which delved into the intricacies of AI, and a course called The Processed Pixel, in which Porto used a programming application to create digital art and animation using AI as a starting point.
“By leveraging AI-generated concepts, we were able to expand our creative boundaries and explore novel artistic expressions. Studying AI in a liberal arts setting like Union fosters a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and leveraging technology. Students are encouraged to combine technical skills with critical thinking and creativity. This integration develops innovative solutions that are not only technologically sound but also socially and ethically informed.”
Mariel Silpe '25
Major: English
Minors: Classics and Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies
Post-Union plans: Law school (child advocacy or civil rights)
Coursework has included Interactive Fiction with professors Shana McAuliffe (English) and Kristina Striegnitz (Computer Science), which introduced AI and coding by using the technology to create stories.
“With my professors’ encouragement to use AI, I have become less afraid of it, more amazed by its abilities and more understanding of its drawbacks. As a tutor in Union’s Writing Center and a member of our Honor Council, I was worried that AI would remove all creativity and integrity from students’ work. With the guidance of my professors, I now think AI is a great tool for students of all disciplines when used correctly. AI will only grow in our lifetimes, and it is best to understand how it works and grow with it.”
Ashlesha Bhagat '26
Majors: Computer Science and Studio Arts
Minor: Seward Organizing Theme
Post-Union plans: Explore intersections between art and computer science
Coursework has included two classes in which AI was used to make art: The Processed Pixel and Real and Recorded Time.
“I have seen so many different reactions to AI. From the initial panic to, over time, the acceptance of AI, there has been a change in how people work with AI. I think studying AI in a liberal arts setting like Union really allows you to explore it as a tool. Rather than using it to make your work, you use it to enhance your work and push boundaries.”
Ava Hubert '26
Major: Neuroscience
Minor: Philosophy
Post-Union plans: Leverage a background in neuroscience, enhanced by philosophical methods, to help people
Coursework includes a neuroscience class, in which students utilized ChatGPT to see if it was able to debunk some common misconceptions. Durig spring term, Hubert conducted research assessing student attitudes toward AI and AI use at Union to shed light on how her peers feel about these platforms. She presented her findings during Steinmetz Symposium in May.
“It is massively important to understand the ramifications of becoming reliant on AI. A discussion to be had is whether these platforms can be used as tools rather than shortcuts. My experience researching AI use/attitudes at Union has opened my eyes to the importance of honesty and open communication when it comes to appropriate use of AI platforms in academic settings and in general. This is relevant not only to my current research, but whatever career I end up pursuing.”