Erin Berthon, MA Career Manager, Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, at Chapman University

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s a tool that is shaping the way we learn, work, and grow professionally. For college students preparing to enter the job market, understanding how AI impacts careers is becoming just as important as having a strong resume or building a professional network.

AI can be a powerful career enhancer, but like any other tool, it’s most effective when you know how to use it thoughtfully. Here are some tips on how to use AI to help enhance your career search and preparation.

Why Understanding AI Matters

Employers are already integrating AI into their hiring processes and day-to-day operations. In fact, more often today, large companies use some form of AI to screen resumes, analyze interviews, or assess skills. If you’re submitting applications without understanding how these systems work, you may be at a disadvantage.

At the same time, AI is shifting the kinds of skills that employers value. Since machines can take on repetitive or technical tasks, employers are now prioritizing human strengths: adaptability, creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Understanding how AI influences your field not only makes you a stronger applicant but also shows employers you are prepared for the future of work.

How AI Can Support Your Career Planning

One of the most practical ways students can use AI is in career preparation. For example, AI can analyze a job description and help identify the skills employers are looking for. You can then ensure those skills show up on your resume or in your cover letter. Instead of writing generic bullets, you can ask AI to help you rewrite them to highlight measurable accomplishments and clear outcomes.

AI can also help with interview practice. By inputting a job description, you can generate common interview questions and rehearse your responses. This helps you not only prepare for what might be asked but also reflect on how to frame your experiences in a way that shows growth, resilience, and value.

Exploring career options is another area where AI shines. If you’re unsure about what path to take, you can ask AI to match your current skills with potential job roles or to suggest certifications and training programs that align with your goals. Similarly, AI can provide strategies for job searching in specific industries, helping you focus your time and effort.

Networking, too, can benefit from AI. Writing outreach messages to alumni or drafting your LinkedIn “About” section can feel intimidating. AI can provide templates or inspiration that you can then personalize, ensuring your voice still comes through while saving you time.

Chapman Career AI: Powered by VMock

At Chapman, students have access to Panther AI, a tool built to help you apply AI in your career journey. With Panther AI, you can upload your resume and receive personalized feedback on how to improve it. Instead of just telling you what’s wrong, it points out areas for growth so you can decide what to keep and what to revise.

The platform also allows you to explore interview practice questions based on real jobs and internships. Reviewing these can help you identify which areas feel easy and which ones you may need to prepare for more deeply. Panther AI is designed to give you that extra layer of preparation before stepping into real-world interactions with employers.

The Limitations of AI

Of course, AI isn’t perfect. It doesn’t know your full background, your values, or your long-term goals unless you share them. It also can’t build relationships or replace the connections you make through networking, mentorship, and internships.

Career journeys are rarely linear; therefore, AI might present “standard” paths that don’t reflect unconventional or emerging opportunities. And while AI can suggest resources, it doesn’t always know which ones are most reliable or up to date.

Finally, there’s the risk of over-reliance. If you let AI do all the heavy lifting, you may miss out on the self-reflection and trial-and-error experiences that are critical to professional growth. Think of AI as a coach, not a substitute, as it can guide you, but you still have to do the work yourself.

Final Thoughts

AI is changing the career landscape, and students who learn how to use it strategically will stand out. It can help you tailor your resume, practice interviews, and explore career options with more clarity and confidence. At the same time, it’s essential to balance AI with your own creativity, emotional intelligence, and human connections.

Your career is ultimately about who you are, not just the tools you use. AI is here to support you, but the vision, passion, and drive are all yours.

Want to learn more about AI? Join me at my next workshop, AI + You: Enhancing your career. We will discuss why AI matters, how you can use it for your career development, what its limitations are, and how to explore jobs using AI.