Student Job Seekers Put AI to Work
Career-focused students from a range of academic disciplines recently attended an eye-opening interactive workshop, “Using AI Without Losing Your Voice,” presented by Kathy D’Agostino, founder of Win at Business.AI.
Whether students prefer ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini, how they use AI in their career search can be a game-changer for getting a foot in the door. In collaboration with the Career Development Center, D’Agostino showcased her 4-Step AI Method, illustrating how students should define goals, clarify prompts, refine AI’s responses, and utilize the results.
“Many people treat AI like a search engine, typing in vague questions and hoping for useful answers,” says D’Agostino.
“Artificial intelligence should be used as a drafting partner helping you articulate ideas, not a ghostwriter who replaces your thinking.”
“Hiring managers read hundreds of resumes, and generic AI output has a recognizable pattern,” she added. “It may sound good, but it says nothing.”
Using AI Intelligently
AI works best when applicants clearly outline their role, achievements, and results.
Instead of asking AI to “help with my resume,” use the prompt: “rewrite this resume bullet emphasizing my impact during a theatre production internship.”
Keep refining AI’s response until it is engaging, specific, authentic, and sounds like you. Before copying AI-generated text, students should ask themselves: Does this sound like me? Is it accurate? Would I say this confidently in an interview?
Tools From the AI Job Search Playbook
Participants, from freshmen to seniors, reviewed the AI Job Search Playbook, which included tips such as translating academic work into employer-friendly language in resumes, cover letters, and interviews.
Other sample prompts were tailored for creative majors, such as artist statements and portfolio walk-throughs. History and psychology grads learned how AI can help summarize research.
Associate Director Jessica Mazzia emphasized that effective prompts are key. “A big part of asking AI for help is knowing how to ask the right question,” she says. For example:
- “Rewrite this bullet to highlight leadership and impact in a role or industry.”
- “Describe this studio project in a way that emphasizes problem-solving and collaboration.”
- “Generate five practice interview questions for a research internship.”
- “Make this explanation sound more confident and less passive.”
AI can’t tell a student’s story without the particulars of their role, says D’Agostino. “But providing those details can transform AI into a powerful tool.”
