Summary of Key Points
This article discusses the process of choosing college majors in the era of AI, pointing out that parents' traditional approach of focusing on employment rates and attending prestigious universities (which was effective 20 years ago) is no longer relevant. AI is reshaping the demand for various professions and the rules of the job market. The article proposes three counterintuitive new priorities: major > university, industry > city, peers > courses, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to allow children to make their own decisions and develop the ability to take responsibility for their lives.
1. Why Traditional Approaches Are Ineffective? AI Is Changing the Landscape of Majors
In the past, parents chose majors based on employment rates or the reputation of universities. However, AI is disrupting these norms:
- AI Replacing Standardized Jobs: AI can perform tasks in 92% of standardized positions (such as data entry, accounting, and legal assistance), which require less expertise; whereas roles that require extensive experience or technical skills (like software engineering or research) are less susceptible to automation.
- Rapid Changes in Majors: Over the past five years, 5,345 majors have been discontinued nationwide, with another 1,670 eliminated in 2023, particularly in fields like management and literature. New majors often combine traditional concepts with AI (e.g., “intelligent +” or “data +”), but they may not offer substantial improvements.
- Outdated Logic: Using employment rates from 20 years ago to predict future major trends is like using an old map to explore new territories—while there is plenty of information, the framework is flawed.
2. Choosing a Major: Avoid Following Trends; Focus on Quality and Type
When choosing a major, consider whether it provides skills that AI cannot replace or whether it offers valuable, long-term benefits:
- Identifying Genuine AI-Mediated Majors: Out of the 628 universities offering AI-related programs nationwide, many are just doing so to meet requirements. To assess their quality, check:
1. Whether they offer graduate programs;
2. If they collaborate with leading companies;
3. If their core courses focus on AI;
4. If the faculty has relevant expertise.
- Prioritizing Accumulative vs. Standardized Skills: While some fields (like biology and engineering) may have lower starting salaries, they offer technical barriers that AI cannot overcome. In contrast, roles in software development or customer service are more likely to be automated.
3. Choosing a City: Focus on Industries Rather Than Administrative Levels
The value of a city lies in the industries it supports:
- Industry-Specific Cities: Choose cities with strong industrial bases for your major. For example, Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen have thriving semiconductor industries; Changzhou has a robust new energy sector; Hefei is known for its automotive manufacturing.
- Benefits of Industry-Focused Cities: You can gain valuable industry insights and intern opportunities, which can help you adjust your career path even if you initially choose the wrong major.
4. Choosing a University: Connections Are More Important Than Brand
The reputation of a university is important, but not as decisive as you might think:
- The Power of Networks: Top universities provide access to valuable networks and opportunities, increasing your chances of success.
- Difficulty in Changing Majors: Changing majors is challenging, with only about 2% of students succeeding. You need high grades and competitive opportunities.
- Consider Alternative Options: If a prestigious university doesn’t suit your interests, consider other schools with strong programs in related fields.
5. The Ultimate Decision: Let Children Make Their Own Choices
The real goal of choosing a major is to teach them how to make decisions and take responsibility for their lives:
- AI’s Impact on Jobs: By 2030, AI will replace around 92 million jobs, creating 170 million new ones. Children need to decide what kind of person they want to become.
- Parental Role: Parents should guide but not make all the decisions. Help them explore their interests and understand the realities of different majors.
In conclusion, in the AI era, the ability to make informed choices is more important than choosing the right major. By teaching children how to navigate these changes, you are preparing them for a future where they can adapt to new challenges.