In a recent interview at TU Berlin, Open AI CEO Sam Altman shared powerful insights on what students can do today to succeed in a world shaped by rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.
His advice wasn’t about choosing the right major or following the hottest trend, it was about developing the mindset and skills that will matter most.
1. Master AI Tools- They’re Your New Superpower
Altman’s first piece of advice was simple but vital: learn to use AI tools. AI tools like ChatGPT, Mid journey, and Copilot are no longer just futuristic tech, they’re now essential in everyday work and learning.
“They let you do far more than before,” Sam said, highlighting that productivity and creativity are expanding rapidly for those who know how to leverage these tools.
What students should do:
- Get comfortable with using tools like ChatGPT for research, brainstorming, and writing assistance.
- Explore AI-powered apps in your field—whether it’s design, coding, writing, or marketing.
- Don’t just use them. Study how they work. The better your understanding, the more powerful they become.
2. Build Real Adaptability and Resilience
We’ve all heard the phrase “be adaptable.” But Altman treats adaptability and resilience as real, learnable skills.
“You get better at them with time and effort,” he noted.
In a fast-changing world, especially one powered by AI, jobs and systems will keep evolving. Those who can adjust quickly and bounce back from challenges will thrive.
What students should do:
- Take on unfamiliar projects. The discomfort is where growth happens.
- Learn how to recover from failure—resilience is built through experience.
- Stay curious, flexible, and open to learning new tools or ideas.
3. Focus on What People Actually Want
Sam Altman emphasized a deep truth: It’s not just about building things—it’s about building what matters. As AI becomes capable of generating nearly anything, the human edge lies in choosing the right thing to build.
“What do people care about? What has real value?”
This insight comes from his time at Y Combinator, where he watched countless founders struggle not with technology, but with understanding people.
What students should do:
- Talk to people. Learn what frustrates them, excites them, or makes their life better.
- Practice empathy—understand needs before offering solutions.
- Use AI to build meaningful tools, not just flashy projects.
4. It’s Not Just the Questions-It’s the People
Some say the future belongs to those who ask the right questions. Sam takes it a step further—the future belongs to those who understand people.
“If you know what they want, you can guide AI in the right direction.”
With AI capable of building almost anything, the bottleneck isn’t execution—it’s purpose. Students who understand real human problems can guide AI toward work that has impact.
What students should do:
- Study psychology, behavior, and sociology along with tech skills.
- Learn to observe trends in culture and needs in society.
- Build a habit of asking: Who is this for? Why does it matter?
5. Focus on Human-AI Collaboration, Not Competition
While many worry about competing with AI, Sam Altman encourages a different mindset collaborate with it. Use AI as a partner, not a rival.
Why This Matters:
The most impactful professionals in the next decade will likely be “AI-augmented humans” those who know when to trust machines and when to lead with human intuition.
What You Can Do Today:
- Use AI to automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on higher-level thinking.
- Learn how to verify and fact-check AI-generated outputs.
- Work on hybrid projects that blend human creativity with AI efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Sam Altman’s advice isn’t just for tech students, it’s for everyone. The future will be shaped by those who:
- Use AI as a tool, not a crutch.
- Adapt and grow through uncertainty.
- Understand people deeply and create solutions that truly matter.
As AI takes on more of the “how,” it’s up to humans to focus on the “why.”
TL;DR
Sam Altman says students should learn AI tools, stay adaptable, and build what truly matters to people.
In a world led by AI, human insight and purpose will define success.
FAQs
What did Sam Altman say about students preparing for the future?
Sam Altman advised students to learn how to use AI tools, develop adaptability, and focus on solving problems that matter to people.
Why is using AI tools important for students?
AI tools can boost productivity, creativity, and problem-solving, allowing students to do more with less effort and time.
Is Sam Altman’s advice only for tech students?
No, his advice applies to all students regardless of their major. AI will impact every field, making these skills universally important.
What is the most important skill for students in the AI age?
According to Sam Altman, the key skill is understanding what people truly want, as AI can build things—but humans must decide what to build and why.
How can students build adaptability and resilience?
Students can develop these skills by stepping outside their comfort zones, taking on challenges, learning from failures, and staying curious in the face of change.
