How to stand out — at school or work — in a world of AI
This article was written by Autumn Sanchez, a UW–Madison academic advising manager for the Division of Continuing Studies Badger Ready program. The article was originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on Feb. 8, 2026.
I recently had a conversation with a student that had me thinking about artificial intelligence (AI) and its place in educational and professional settings.
The student expressed concern about over-use of AI, in particular how it runs the risk of “getting the same output as everyone else” – erasing individualism. But this student came up with a creative way to avoid always relying on AI while also building soft skills: She started a group chat of friends who, when they’re stuck and tempted to turn to AI, tap each other instead – sharing ideas, sourcing inspiration and building relationships.
It’s a great example of leveraging something AI can’t replicate: human connection.
As David Brooks wrote in the New York Times, AI can reveal “who we are and what we have to offer.” So, what do we have to offer? What should we focus on cultivating in our jobs and classrooms, alongside AI literacy?
Authenticity. AI may mimic us, but it doesn’t have a distinct personal voice. That can only come from human experience. Allow your creativity and imagination to shine. Professors and fellow students benefit from your perspective, and because of this, you stand out as a unique and interesting individual. Employers want to know you, not just a perfectly formatted résumé. Share professional and personal stories that reveal resilience, problem-solving, learning, curiosity and adaptability.
Purpose. AI is built to find patterns, predict outcomes and offer recommendations. It lacks consciousness, emotions and lived experiences that help us form our values, which shape our purpose. Stay true to your values and vision, and don’t shy away from sharing them when they align with a potential employer. Connecting your personal mission with an organization’s mission illustrates added value beyond the skills you possess. In a classroom, sharing your purpose injects an authenticity that AI can’t replicate.
Connection. AI is no replacement for human relationships and relational learning, as my student found in her group chat. The empathy we possess outshines machines when it comes to connecting with teachers, colleagues and others. Consider job interviews: They’re not just a Q&A, they’re about trust, listening and rapport. These qualities can’t be automated. Practice honing your listening skills, take time away from screens to connect with people in person and pay attention to your own feelings and responses.
The bottom line: AI might accelerate the production of information and can even help interpret and organize ideas. But human qualities such as personal experience, values and emotional intelligence cannot be coded. Used responsibly, AI can be a helpful tool, but we have much more to offer the world in our educational pursuits, careers and lives.
To learn more helpful academic and career tips, check out the Ultimate Guide to Online Business Degrees.
Post written by Autumn Sanchez.