Why Tech-Savvy Gen Z Is Wary of AI

Artificial Intelligence is impacting virtually every aspect of our lives.

From major breakthroughs in healthcare, including early detection of life-threatening diseases, to greater efficiencies in production and even companionship for seniors, AI is transforming society and making what once seemed impossible now possible.

Typically, young adults embrace new technologies such as smartphones, social media, and the internet, helping move them into the mainstream.

However, recent surveys, including a 2026 Gallup study, show a more cautious outlook. Only 22% of Gen Z respondents report feeling excited about AI, while 42% express anxiety.

To better understand this shift, CommPRO spoke with several Gen Z students at Columbia College Chicago, a nationally respected media arts school.

“AI has never been something I look fondly upon myself, nor is it viewed positively by a majority of my friends,” says Jayla Griggs, an honors student from downstate Illinois.

“As a creative, I’ve mostly seen AI used as a tool that takes from talented artists and rehashes their work without the original soul or intent, often without their knowledge or consent,” she adds.

Griggs notes that she and her roommates actively try to keep their shared space AI-free. They avoid products featuring AI-generated art and steer clear of brands that rely heavily on AI in advertising.

“My partner and I have actually switched from buying Coca-Cola products to Pepsi, as Coke has repeatedly shown support of generative AI, while Pepsi has made a point to hire real artists,” she says.

She believes skepticism toward AI is growing across her generation.

“I am also not fond of AI because of how hard it has hit the job market,” she says, noting that entry-level roles are increasingly affected, making it more difficult for young people to secure employment regardless of qualifications.

Griggs also points to environmental concerns, particularly the high energy consumption associated with AI, an issue that resonates strongly with Gen Z.

While she remains critical of generative AI, she acknowledges potential benefits if used responsibly.

“If AI can help humanity without taking jobs or relying on biased training models, especially in areas like disease diagnostics, I wouldn’t mind it,” she says.

Saige Czyzewski, an illustration major, sees AI as direct competition to his future career.

However, he remains confident in the value of human creativity.

“Employers know artists are the real deal. AI can’t recreate the emotion or the effort we put into our work,” he says.

Still, he worries about overreliance.

“I hope we become more educated about AI and how it can limit our ability to think,” he adds.

Robert McClain, a recent graduate now working as a marketing coordinator at Rivers Casino, offers a more measured perspective.

“AI is not going anywhere,” he says. “It shouldn’t be rejected outright, but it should be approached carefully and used within reason.”

He believes continued exploration is necessary.

“The more we use AI, the more problems we uncover, and the more opportunities we have to improve it,” he explains.

At the same time, McClain draws a firm line around creative work and expresses concern about environmental impact. He encourages public engagement in shaping how AI evolves.

“Just like early aviation required time, regulation, and refinement, AI needs the same level of care as it develops,” he says.

Bryce Kruljac, another honors student, acknowledges AI’s efficiency but questions its long-term impact on the workforce.

“AI can support workflows and handle data-heavy tasks,” he says. “But I haven’t seen a professional environment where it doesn’t eventually reduce the need for human workers.”

“Until organizations prove they value human perspective as much as efficiency, it’s hard to see this as anything but a net negative,” he adds.

Columbia adjunct professor and PR professional Mark Perlman offers a practical view.

“AI is a valuable research tool, but it can only go so far,” he says.

“A PR professional or any creative must build on what AI produces. Ultimately, success still depends on the human behind the work. Humans will never go out of style.”