My son graduates from college this month, and he’s been in decision mode as he considers what’s next. He’s been contemplating various grad schools, so of course I’ve been processing alongside him, hoping to provide some advice and wisdom. As we’ve discussed his options, I’ve realized just how much I don’t know about aerospace engineering.

So where have I turned? ChatGPT.

I’ve entered key words and phrases that I don’t really understand (but he’s told me are very important) to help figure out the best program for what he wants to study. It turns out certain programs are ideal for “hypersonic” and “propulsion” system research and others are not. ChatGPT provided helpful research explaining the various programs and comparing them to one another.

While AI could weigh the pros and cons of educational opportunities, that was all it could offer. It was a helpful tool, but it wasn’t a source of wisdom. It couldn’t listen or hear the tone of my son’s voice when he talked about certain programs. It couldn’t go back and forth intuitively because it doesn’t know my son. It couldn’t pray for him or tell him the truth that whatever he chooses, God will lead, guide, and be with him.

As we’ve walked through the decision process, I’ve been reminded of a recent Deep Dish episode with our colleague Michael Graham, “AI: Friend or Foe?” If you’re weighing the wisdom of using AI in your daily life and wondering how much is too much, don’t miss this episode. I learned so much from our conversation. We hope it will help spark discussions around your table as you consider the possibilities and problems of using AI in your day to day life.