My AI Learning Journey

In June 2023, I journalled privately about experimenting with ChatGPT.

At the time, artificial intelligence still felt like something new and slightly uncertain. There was a great deal of discussion in the media about where the technology might lead, while universities were beginning to work out what its growing availability meant for students and academic integrity.

My own introduction to AI came through university. Initially, it was discussed mainly in the context of plagiarism and the importance of ensuring that submitted work remained our own. At the same time, some lecturers were beginning to encourage students to explore AI as a legitimate learning tool - for research, understanding difficult concepts, processing information and checking grammar and written expression.

It was interesting to be a student during that period of rapid change. As the technology developed and student use increased, university policies and expectations evolved alongside it.

My first experiments with ChatGPT were mostly out of curiosity. I discovered very quickly that I liked the conversational way of learning. I could ask a question, follow it with another, approach a subject from a different angle and ask for an explanation in simpler terms. It was a little like having an extremely patient and forgiving tutor available to help me think things through.

Three years later, AI has become a normal part of everyday life for me.

I completed the Google AI Professional Certificate in April 2026, partly because I wanted to understand more about the technology I was already using so regularly, and how to use it thoughtfully and effectively in my work as a finance officer.

ChatGPT remains my main AI tool for personal use. I use it for learning, researching ideas, improving my writing, thinking through problems and countless small questions that arise during the day. Professionally, I also use Microsoft Copilot at work, particularly to assist with writing, analysis and working through information.

I don't think there are many days now when I don't use AI for something.

I have also introduced ChatGPT to my sister. She uses it in her own way — helping her understand things happening in the world and assisting with the songs, stories and book reviews she loves to write. Watching her discover what she can do with it has been another reminder that the value of these tools can be very personal.

Back in June 2023, I noted that I intended to "continue to experiment and explore the possibilities of ChatGPT as a useful tool."

I certainly did.

Graduated

In March 2024, I travelled to Hobart with my husband to attend my graduation ceremony at the University of Tasmania.

I had begun my Bachelor of Business journey in 2021, and I suppose when I imagined this day back then, I pictured it rather differently. By the time graduation came around, Dad was very much on my mind, and that sadness sat quietly alongside the pride of finally reaching the end.

Even so, it is an experience I will never forget.

The ceremony was livestreamed, which meant Mum was able to watch from home in Queensland. She has since told me she has watched it several times, which still makes me smile.

There is something quite special about the moment captured in this photograph - walking across the stage in my gown and mortar board and accepting my degree certificate from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Tasmania.

More than two years later, I look back on that day with mixed emotions, but mostly with gratitude. It wasn’t quite the graduation I had imagined when I first began, but it marked the end of a journey I am very glad I made.