1 in 5 Harvard graduates changed their career plans due to AI: Survey

Nearly 57% of Harvard's graduating Class of 2026 believe it is a bad time to enter the workforce, while one in five have already changed their career plans because of artificial intelligence (AI). This, even as 18% expect starting salaries of more than $130,000.Nearly 57% of Harvard's graduating Class of 2026 believe it is a bad time to enter the workforce. A degree from Harvard University is often seen as a path to a successful career. For many graduates, that expectation is backed by impressive starting salaries, with some preparing to earn more than $130,000 (Rs 1.22 crore) a year.But there is one thing that is making even these graduates nervous: the job market.A new survey of Harvard's graduating Class of 2026 has found that 57% of respondents believe it is a somewhat or very bad time to enter the workforce. More than half also believe artificial intelligence (AI) will reduce their job prospects.The findings come from the annual senior survey conducted by The Harvard Crimson, the university's student-run newspaper. It collected responses from 680 graduating seniors, offering a glimpse into how students from one of the world's most prestigious universities view their careers after college. SIX-FIGURE SALARIES, BUT AN UNCERTAIN FUTUREThe salary figures look encouraging at first. Around 56% of respondents entering the workforce expect to earn more than $90,000 annually, while 18% anticipate salaries exceeding $130,000.Technology, finance and consulting remain among the most popular choices. Technology graduates appear particularly well-placed financially. Nearly 58% of respondents entering the sector expect to earn more than $130,000, while almost three-quarters expect salaries above $110,000.Finance is not far behind. Around 31% of graduates entering the sector expect to earn more than $130,000, while nearly 92% anticipate earning above $90,000.Yet, these salary expectations have not removed concerns about job security.AI IS CHANGING CAREER PLANS BEFORE GRADUATIONFor many students, artificial intelligence is no longer just another technology to learn. It is becoming a factor in deciding which career to pursue.More than half of the surveyed graduates believe AI will hurt their employment prospects. The concern is particularly strong among those entering publishing and media, as well as consulting, where around 70% expect AI to negatively affect their career opportunities.The uncertainty has already influenced career decisions. About one in five respondents said they had changed their career plans because of developments in AI.Among technology graduates, the figure was even higher at around 36%. Interestingly, nearly 57% of those entering technology also believed AI would negatively affect their career prospects.This suggests that even students preparing to work in technology are unsure about how quickly the industry could change.THE HARVARD DEGREE STILL HOLDS ITS APPEALDespite these concerns, the survey does not suggest that graduates are unhappy with their choices.Around 77% said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their post-graduation plans. As many as 95% said they would choose Harvard again.For now, the university's graduating class appears to be entering the workforce with both opportunity and uncertainty.The degree may still open doors to high-paying careers. But for these graduates, getting the job is only part of the challenge. The bigger question is whether the job they have prepared for will look the same a few years from now.- Ends