Artificial Intelligence isn’t just about coding or automation—it’s becoming a powerful ally in how we collaborate and manage our time. At UF’s recent AI Days event:Gator Career Chat: AI + Future of Work & Networking Mixer, experts from engineering, agriculture, health education, and the arts shared how AI is reshaping the way we work together and get things done.
AI as a Team Player
Panelists like Justin Gregory (Jones Edmunds) and Matthew Donovan (Agriculture Intelligence) emphasized that AI can help teams communicate more clearly and reduce technical barriers. For example:
- Engineers use AI to simplify jargon when talking to clients.
- Professionals who don’t traditionally work in communications—like agricultural specialists use AI to craft marketing materials that resonate with diverse audiences.
- Students can use tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, or UF’s own NaviGator to draft group project outlines, summarize meeting notes, or brainstorm ideas collaboratively.
But it’s not just about efficiency. Donovan also shared his “9 principles for teamwork,” including honesty, confidentiality, and mercy—reminding us that emotional intelligence is just as important as technical skill. AI can support these values by helping teams stay organized and transparent.
This directly supports the NACE Career Readiness Competency of Teamwork, which emphasizes the ability to build collaborative relationships, value diverse perspectives, and work effectively toward shared goals. AI tools can help students actively practice these skills in real time—enhancing both communication and collaboration.
AI as a Time Manager
Dr. Delores James highlighted how AI tools like NotebookLM and ChatGPT can act as personal assistants—helping students:
- Organize study schedules
- Summarize dense readings
- Automate repetitive tasks
Christian Kearns from BNY Mellon added that AI agents can even help identify and eliminate “time sinks” in workflows. For students juggling classes, jobs, and extracurriculars, this means more time for what matters most.
Try It Yourself: Practical Tips for UF Students
Here are two easy ways to start using AI in your academic life:
- For Team Projects:
Use ChatGPT, Copilot, or NaviGator to create a shared project timeline, generate discussion prompts, or summarize meeting notes. Reflect on how it helped your team communicate better. - For Time Management:
Try NotebookLM or a ChatGPT persona to help you plan your week, prep for exams, or even draft emails. Track how much time you save—and how it affects your stress levels.
Call to Action:
Pick one AI tool and use it this week to either improve a group project or streamline your schedule. Then share your experience with a classmate, club, or on social media. Let’s learn smarter—together.
Want to go further?
Check out UF’s AI² Center, which is the hub for AI-enhanced learning opportunities at the University of Florida and beyond. They host the AI² Student Club, a space for students of all majors to help you prepare and excel with artificial intelligence on campus and at work. Consider joining to connect with peers and shape the future of AI at UF.
