College Planning in the Age of AI Deep Research: How Families Can Prepare

Wharton Professor Ethan Mollick 's recent analysis of OpenAI’s Deep Research highlights a transformative moment in AI’s evolution. If AI continues to advance at this rate, it could replace traditional search engines and research methods, fundamentally altering how students engage with information. Instead of spending hours sifting through sources, students will have AI research assistants capable of producing graduate-level insights in minutes.

For families, this raises an urgent question: How can we prepare students to thrive in this AI-enhanced learning environment? The answer lies in?teaching students to use AI as a tool, not a crutch—and ensuring they develop the critical thinking and creativity skills that will set them apart.

Preparing for an AI-Enhanced Future

While AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace?intellectual curiosity, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning—the very skills that will make students stand out in college admissions and beyond. Families can support students by encouraging:

• Critical Thinking:?AI can generate information, but students must learn to question sources, identify biases, and analyze ideas for accuracy and depth.
• Creativity & Originality:?Colleges will value students who can generate novel ideas and apply knowledge in unique ways.
• AI Literacy & Responsible Use:?Knowing how to collaborate with AI ethically—rather than relying on it for shortcuts—will be a crucial skill in academia and the workforce.

Reducing Stress in College Admissions

A recent study by College Rover found that nearly?one in eight students?have abandoned the college application process due to stress, while?one in four?are attending therapy for application-related anxiety. AI won’t eliminate the pressures of college admissions, but it can reduce overwhelm by managing repetitive, time-consuming tasks.

Families can integrate AI to:

• Organize deadlines and schedules?for essays, test prep, and applications.
• Brainstorm and refine essay ideas?while ensuring students' authentic voices shine through.
• Generate structured study plans?to optimize test prep and coursework.

By leveraging AI thoughtfully, students can focus on the deeper, more meaningful aspects of their applications—crafting compelling personal narratives, showcasing intellectual vitality, and demonstrating leadership.

The Future: AI as a Complement, Not a Replacement

The future of education isn’t about choosing between AI and human connection—it’s about integrating both. AI can automate logistical burdens, allowing students more time to?engage deeply with learning, ask better questions, and pursue hands-on experiences.

The students who will thrive in higher education and beyond are not those who memorize the most facts, but those who?know how to think critically, adapt to new technologies, and use AI responsibly.

Final Thoughts

For parents, the mission is clear:?equip students with the skills they need to work alongside AI, rather than be replaced by it.?Encourage curiosity, foster hands-on learning, and advocate for AI literacy so students don’t just adapt to change—they?lead it.

???Read my latest Forbes article on AI and college planning here:?https://www.forbes.com/sites/avivalegatt/2025/02/03/college-planning-for-families-in-the-age-of-ai-deep-research/

?? How do you see AI impacting education and college admissions? Let’s discuss!