Latest news with #UniversityofPennsylvania
CNBC
a day ago
- Science
- CNBC
Harvard-trained educator: Kids who learn how to use AI will become smarter adults—if they avoid this No. 1 mistake
Students that copy and paste ChatGPT answers into their assignments, with little thinking involved, are doing themselves a disservice — especially because artificial intelligence really can help students become better learners, according to psychologist and author Angela Duckworth. Instead of distrusting AI, show kids how to properly use it, Duckworth advised in a speech at the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education commencement ceremony on May 17. Teachers and parents alike can show them how to use the technology's full potential by asking AI models follow-up questions, so they can learn — in detail — how chatbots came to their conclusions, she said. "AI isn't always a crutch, it can also be a coach," said Duckworth, who studied neurobiology at Harvard University and now teaches psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. "In my view, [ChatGPT] has a hidden pedagogical superpower. It can teach by example." Duckworth was skeptical about AI until she found herself stumped by a statistics concept, and in the interest of saving time, asked ChatGPT for help, she said. The chatbot gave her a definition of the concept, a couple of examples and some common misuses. Wanting clarification, she asked follow-up questions and for a demonstration, she said. After 10 minutes of using the technology, she walked away with a clear understanding of the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure, "a pretty sophisticated statistical procedure," she said. "AI helped me reach a level of understanding that far exceed what I could achieve on my own," said most advanced generative AI models suffer from hallucinations and factual inaccuracies, data shows — meaning you should always double check its factual claims, and teach kids to do the same. The topic of "how to use AI" should even find its way into school curricula, billionaire entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban similarly suggested in a New York magazine interview, which published on Tuesday. "The challenge isn't that kids are using it. The challenge is that schools haven't adapted to the that it's available and kids are literate in using it," Cuban said, adding that simply knowing what questions to ask AI is a valuable skillset. Since AI tools do make mistakes, you can likely benefit most directly by using them for tasks that don't involve your final product, side hustle expert Kathy Kristof told CNBC Make It in February. You might, for example, ask a chatbot to create a bullet-point outline for your next writing project — rather than asking it to write the final draft for you. "While I still see AI making a lot of mistakes, picking up errors or outdated information, using AI to create a first draft of something that's then reviewed and edited by human intelligence seems like a no-brainer," said Kristof, founder of the blog. A recent study, conducted by one of Duckworth's doctorate students, followed participants — some of whom were allowed to use chatbots — as they practiced writing cover letters. When later asked to write a cover letter without any assistance, the group that had used AI produced stronger letters on their own, the research shows. The study, published in January, has not yet been peer-reviewed. "Over and over, I watched [ChatGPT] shorten sentences that were too long, weed out needless repetition and even reorder ideas so they flowed more logically," Duckworth said, referencing the research. ,
Toronto Star
a day ago
- Politics
- Toronto Star
Gen Z Canadians make push for end to hyperpartisanship
OTTAWA - Hundreds of Gen Z Canadians met in the capital Friday calling for less partisanship at a time of heightened global polarization and uncertainty. Participants from across the country at the first-of-its-kind youth summit joined forces to break 'hyperpartisanship' and push for a future where political parties work together in the country's best interests. 'I think it's about the next generation having the incumbency to take on that challenge of breaking out of this entrapment of this understanding as if party lines are the solution and are the answer,' said 16-year-old Jaden Braves, founder of the Young Politicians of Canada. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Braves said between 500 and 1,000 people from across the country took part in the summit virtually or in person. He said there's a strong sense of engagement among youth right now, spurred on by ongoing tensions with the United States. 'Young Canadians are interested in a strong Canada,' Braves said. 'Youth of this generation are recognizing how precious and important our sovereignty and our national identity is.' 'The more involved we are, the stronger a message we send to not just neighbored allies, but to our government.' Young Politicians of Canada, which was formed in early 2023, recently sent a delegation to Washington to receive a briefing from the National Security Council at the White House. Once back in Canada, the group delivered a report to the government about tariffs and security strategies. Meilun Yu, who is from Toronto but is studying at the University of Pennsylvania, was a part of that group. At 18 years old, Yu said it's important to talk to other youth in Canada about current issues because the perspectives of younger people are often ignored. Nineteen-year-old Leslie Iradukunda, who is from Winnipeg and is studying at the University of Ottawa, said the state of Canada-U.S. relations has pushed her to get more involved in politics. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW During the event, attendees had the chance to voice their opinions on policy issues — like climate change, online safety and civic engagement — and vote on how to shape the Young Politicians of Canada's advocacy. The lineup of speakers for an evening event Friday included the ambassadors for Ukraine, Germany and Estonia, Sen. Marilou McPhedran, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May and Speaker of the House of Commons Francis Scarpaleggia. B.C. Liberal Jake Sawatsky, who defeated long-time NDP MP Peter Julian in last month's election, replaced Scarpaleggia who was unable to attend. 'I am so inspired by the fact that we've built a national force where thousands of young Canadians can gather, create our guideline and our expectations of how the government is handling policy that's affecting our futures,' Braves said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 30, 2025.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
Facing US Student Visa Issues In 2025? Expert Advice, Alternatives, And What Comes Next
Navigating the complexities of US student visas can be daunting, especially when faced with unexpected challenges. From visa denials to regulatory changes, international students often find themselves in uncertain situations. In this series, we are exploring the most pressing questions and concerns, providing expert insights, practical advice, and guidance for students, parents, and educators alike. NDTV's Ambika Singh Kahma speaks to Abhinav Nath, an education expert, who holds a certification in International College Advising from the University of Pennsylvania, about the current challenges surrounding US student visas and the way forward for affected students: Question 1. If a student has an I-20 visa but can't go to the US due to visa denial, what options do they have? Abhinav Nath: If a student has an I-20 but cannot apply for a visa right now due to the recent pause, they should wait patiently for appointments to resume-it is certain they will. If the visa has been denied, try to investigate what went wrong during the interview process. Consider what question the visa officer asked that may have led to the denial. Reapply and prepare better for your interview. Alongside this, consider options in the UK, Europe, and even Australia, where the first semester (official academic year) begins in January/February. Question 2. How will recent changes in F-1 visa regulations impact international students in the US? Abhinav Nath: New F-1 changes have primarily impacted students planning to go in August/September 2025. The most significant change is the pause on visa appointments as an additional step of social media vetting is being introduced. Whether you're a future student or currently enrolled, being mindful of political activism is important. Anything that can be perceived as anti-nationalism by the US can endanger your F-1 visa status. Additionally, students must not break any laws, including missing classes. The US Embassy in India released a statement along these lines earlier this week (see below). Question 3. What are the alternatives for students who have admission in the US but are struggling to get a visa? Abhinav Nath: Be patient-visa appointments will become available. If you need alternatives, consider UK universities; many still have seats open. Explore European universities as well, many of which have rolling applications (e.g., IE Business School). Indian liberal arts colleges like FLAME and Krea also have final rounds open until mid-June. Lastly, Australia's academic year begins in January/February, so if students are open to a six-month gap, they can apply for the Jan/Feb intake. There are many options-stay positive about the US! Question 4. Can students with an I-20 pursue online courses from their home country, and will it affect their visa status? Abhinav Nath: If you have an I-20 and the F-1 visa but choose to take online courses from your home country, your I-20 status should remain valid. However, once you enter the US, your F-1 visa and SEVIS record become active, and to maintain that status, you must be enrolled full-time and attend in-person classes. Question 5. How can students prepare for potential visa interviews, and what are the most common questions asked? Abhinav Nath: Know why you selected the college you're attending-what makes it stand out? Understand your reasons for pursuing your chosen course. Be clear on how you or your parents will fund your education, and think through your future plans after graduation. You should be able to clearly articulate all of this during your interview. Question 6. What are the implications of visa delays or rejections on students' academic and career plans? Abhinav Nath: If there are visa delays, your university may allow a late arrival or give you the option to defer for a semester or a year, depending on whether they offer a Spring (January) intake. If your visa is rejected, reapply. If it's rejected twice, I recommend exploring other countries and institutions. From a career perspective, even in the worst-case scenario, one gap year won't cost you much-especially if you use it productively. Question 7. Are there any alternative countries or universities that students can consider if they're facing challenges with US visas? Abhinav Nath: Yes. As mentioned earlier, the UK, India, Europe, and Australia all offer excellent alternatives. Question 8. What happens if a student decides to join the university in the next term instead of the current one-can they use the same I-20, or do they need to apply for a new one? Abhinav Nath: Typically, the university will issue a new I-20, but this is a simple process, so students need not worry. If your F-1 visa has already been issued, you may not need to apply for it again (which is a blessing), but a reissued I-20 will still be required. Question 9. What are the key factors that determine visa approval or rejection, and how can students improve their chances? Abhinav Nath: The two biggest factors I've observed over the years are: 1. Your ability to clearly explain why you value a US education and why you chose that specific college. Your reasons should be genuine and academically motivated-not based on having distant relatives in that city or state. 2. Your post-education plans must be communicated clearly. While wanting to work in the US is fine, appearing desperate to stay permanently can hurt your chances. Question 10. What should be the plan of action for a student who is going to the US this year but doesn't have an appointment yet, considering the pause on visa appointments? Abhinav Nath: I recommend three things: 1. Be patient - Appointments are expected to open soon. Keep progressing with your visa application. 2. Have a Plan B - If you have other acceptances, consider securing your place by paying deposits. If not, apply elsewhere as a backup. 3. Prepare thoroughly for your interview - The pause suggests changes are coming (e.g., social media vetting), so be well-prepared for your visa interview. Abhinav has been an Independent Education Consultant for the past 8 years. His students have enrolled in top institutes such as Princeton University, the University of Chicago, the London School of Economics, University College London, and the University of Toronto.
Winnipeg Free Press
2 days ago
- Politics
- Winnipeg Free Press
Gen Z Canadians make push for end to hyperpartisanship
OTTAWA – Hundreds of Gen Z Canadians met in the capital Friday calling for less partisanship at a time of heightened global polarization and uncertainty. Participants from across the country at the first-of-its-kind youth summit joined forces to break 'hyperpartisanship' and push for a future where political parties work together in the country's best interests. 'I think it's about the next generation having the incumbency to take on that challenge of breaking out of this entrapment of this understanding as if party lines are the solution and are the answer,' said 16-year-old Jaden Braves, founder of the Young Politicians of Canada. Braves said between 500 and 1,000 people from across the country took part in the summit virtually or in person. He said there's a strong sense of engagement among youth right now, spurred on by ongoing tensions with the United States. 'Young Canadians are interested in a strong Canada,' Braves said. 'Youth of this generation are recognizing how precious and important our sovereignty and our national identity is.' 'The more involved we are, the stronger a message we send to not just neighbored allies, but to our government.' Young Politicians of Canada, which was formed in early 2023, recently sent a delegation to Washington to receive a briefing from the National Security Council at the White House. Once back in Canada, the group delivered a report to the government about tariffs and security strategies. Meilun Yu, who is from Toronto but is studying at the University of Pennsylvania, was a part of that group. At 18 years old, Yu said it's important to talk to other youth in Canada about current issues because the perspectives of younger people are often ignored. Nineteen-year-old Leslie Iradukunda, who is from Winnipeg and is studying at the University of Ottawa, said the state of Canada-U.S. relations has pushed her to get more involved in politics. During the event, attendees had the chance to voice their opinions on policy issues — like climate change, online safety and civic engagement — and vote on how to shape the Young Politicians of Canada's advocacy. The lineup of speakers for an evening event Friday included the ambassadors for Ukraine, Germany and Estonia, Sen. Marilou McPhedran, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May and Speaker of the House of Commons Francis Scarpaleggia. 'I am so inspired by the fact that we've built a national force where thousands of young Canadians can gather, create our guideline and our expectations of how the government is handling policy that's affecting our futures,' Braves said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 30, 2025.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Anjali Sud educational qualification: How this Indian-origin executive went from Harvard classrooms to the boardroom
Indian-origin Anjali Sud has been elected to the Harvard Board. Anjali Sud, the Indian-American businesswoman and technology executive, has carved a remarkable path from her educational beginnings to becoming a leading figure in the media and tech industry. Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Punjabi immigrants from India, Sud's journey reflects determination, academic excellence, and visionary leadership. Most recently, she has been elected to Harvard University's Board of Overseers, marking another milestone in a career defined by growth and impact. Sud's educational foundation set the stage for her successful career. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science degree in finance and management. Later, she earned her MBA from Harvard Business School in 2011, an experience that further shaped her leadership skills and strategic outlook. Her ascent from these classrooms to leading global media platforms highlights the power of education paired with ambition. Early life and academic journey Growing up in Flint, Michigan, Sud attended Phillips Andover Academy, a prestigious private school in Massachusetts, starting in 1997 at age 14. This move away from her hometown to a rigorous academic environment was an early indication of her drive and focus. After completing her studies at Andover, she enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, one of the top business schools in the country. Here, she earned a in finance and management, graduating in 2005. Determined to deepen her business expertise, Sud pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School, graduating in 2011. Harvard's rigorous curriculum and collaborative culture played a crucial role in honing her skills in leadership, strategy, and innovation. This educational foundation helped Sud navigate the complex world of media, technology, and entrepreneurship, preparing her to take on increasingly challenging roles. Building a career from finance to technology leadership After completing her undergraduate degree, Sud began her career in finance, media, and e-commerce sectors. Between 2005 and 2014, she worked at companies like Sagent Advisors, Time Warner, and Amazon, gaining valuable experience in various business functions. Her diverse roles gave her insights into how media and technology intersect with finance and marketing. In 2014, Sud joined Vimeo, a video platform owned by IAC, initially as head of global marketing. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming general manager of Vimeo's core creator business. In this role, she led several innovative product launches, including Vimeo Business, 360-degree video support, and video collaboration tools. Her success in these areas set the stage for her appointment as Vimeo's CEO in July 2017. A new era at Vimeo and beyond As CEO, Sud refocused Vimeo's strategy from producing original content to developing software tools for video creators. Under her leadership, Vimeo acquired several startups including Livestream in 2017, Magisto in 2019, and video software companies WIREWAX and Wibbitz in 2021. These strategic moves expanded Vimeo's offerings and strengthened its position in the market. Sud also oversaw two major fundraising rounds for Vimeo: a $150 million equity raise in November 2020 and a $300 million round in January 2021. These helped the company reach a valuation of over $5 billion. Vimeo went public on Nasdaq in May 2021 under her leadership, marking a significant milestone for the company. After nearly a decade with Vimeo and six years as CEO, Sud announced in July 2023 that she would leave the company in September to pursue new opportunities. Shortly after, she was named CEO of Tubi, a free ad-supported streaming service owned by Fox Corporation. From student to overseer: Giving back to harvard In May 2025, Anjali Sud was elected to Harvard University's Board of Overseers, filling the vacancy left by Mark Carney. This prestigious role allows Sud to contribute to the governance and strategic direction of one of the world's leading universities. It also symbolizes a full-circle moment, highlighting her journey from Harvard student to influential leader and mentor. Sud's story is a testament to the power of education combined with perseverance. Her academic credentials from top institutions laid the groundwork for a career marked by innovation and leadership. As she continues to break new ground, Sud inspires many aspiring professionals, especially women and members of the Indian diaspora, to pursue their ambitions relentlessly. Ready to empower your child for the AI era? Join our program now! Hurry, only a few seats left.
