The use of AI in essay writing has created a demand for "human vibes," with consultants charging up to $150 to make AI-written essays sound more human. AI tools are particularly popular among international students who use them to help with English language essays. However, the rapid development of AI and the lack of consensus on how to address its use in applications has created a "Wild West" situation in higher education. While some universities allow AI use, others consider it plagiarism. Detection of AI use is still an imperfect science, with concerns about the high cost of falsely identifying an essay as AI-generated.
Key takeaways:
- AI tools like ChatGPT are being used by students to write their college or graduate school essays, but the overuse of certain phrases and words can tip off admissions committees to this AI assistance.
- Students are hiring essay consultants to 'un-ChatGPT' their essays and add a human touch to their submissions.
- There is a lack of consistent rules and tools for detecting AI use in the application process, leading to a rise in the use of AI tools like ChatGPT.
- While some schools are trying to fend off the use of AI in applications with strict policies, others are embracing it, leading to a varied approach to AI use in higher education admissions.