Graduation Day and the AI Backlash

This spring, college commencements in the United States have been marked by loud boos when speakers praise artificial intelligence. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt was repeatedly jeered at the University of Arizona when he spoke about the rise of AI. Although some speakers say AI will bring new jobs, many graduates have been unsettled by the message while they face a difficult job market.

Students say the speeches feel tone deaf because companies have used AI to automate tasks and cut roles. Several ceremonies have seen students chant AI sucks or interrupt speakers. An Arizona community college also paused its ceremony after an AI announcer skipped and mispronounced names, and the college later offered a do-over. Since these events, commentators have warned speakers to read the room and avoid boosting tech on graduation day. Employers have cited AI when announcing layoffs, and many job postings now ask candidates to 'collaborate with AI'. Students have said this is confusing: they are often banned from using AI in class but told it will shape their careers. The result has been visible anger on graduation day and a new caution for speakers.