AI can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of worrying about it taking over, we should learn how to make AI work for us. Here’s how I’ve come to see AI as a tool for empowerment, not replacement.

AI doesn’t have to be a threat—it can be a powerful ally if used wisely. The key is understanding how to make AI work for you instead of letting it replace the work you do. In my IT studies at DePaul, I’ve learned that AI can automate repetitive tasks, provide data-driven insights, and even improve accessibility. For example, developers can use AI to generate design layouts, test usability, or optimize website performance while still maintaining full creative control over the final product. The human touch—our judgment, empathy, and ethics—remains irreplaceable.

Learning how to integrate AI effectively into workflows is becoming one of the most valuable modern skills. Instead of resisting technology, I believe professionals should focus on mastering how to direct it. Whether in web development, data analysis, or UX design, AI can amplify our impact when paired with thoughtful human oversight. I see a future where AI becomes less of a rival and more of a digital partner—helping us push boundaries and innovate in ways that would be impossible on our own.