Providing Support to the MSAI Community

MSAI program assistant Shawn Smith talks about being the primary point of contact for students and how he strives to make life easier for them.

Shawn Smith considers himself to be a lifelong learner. 

In April, he joined Northwestern Engineering's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program as a program assistant, and since then he's gained a new understanding for the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). Simply put, he now recognizes how transformational AI can be.

“AI will shape the future of our world,” Smith said. “The people who program AI applications will greatly impact it, so if AI is something you are interested in, think about how you can make a change for the better. Make sure you are in this for the right reasons morally and ethically.” 

Shawn SmithSmith said he’s proud to be part of a program that recognizes how crucial this time is in the development and use of new technology. He’s seen MSAI instructors showcase the possibilities when humans and technology blend for a common good while also educating students on how drastically things can go wrong if that power isn’t exercised responsibly. 

“Many people believe that eventually technology will take over,” he said. “Working with the MSAI program, you learn that we are on track to create an interdependent relationship between man and machine. This could lead to advancements that could impact the world for the better or worse, depending upon the ethical and moral compass of those programming the AI.”

Smith’s role in the program is to limit stressors for students beyond their schoolwork. He serves as the primary contact for students within the program, and his day-to-day responsibilities range from helping students with class registration and tech support to focusing on logistics for program-related events. 

He also dedicates time to linking students with alumni and other industry mentors. 

“I am here to assist the students and the staff of the program to ensure the program runs efficiently,” he said. “My goal is to make sure that students have everything they need to be successful throughout their time at Northwestern.”

Smith’s work affords him the opportunity to pick up on things the students are learning, often because he’s in their classrooms making sure the technology he’s set up works as it should. 

"This program teaches more than just AI," he said. "It provides students with the knowledge and experience to apply AI to real problems businesses face. When applied to the real world, our students have an extensive knowledge and expertise needed to complete, facilitate, and work on innovative projects."

Smith has also been impressed by the MSAI student community. 

“What surprises me the most about the MSAI program is the level of entrepreneurship among the students,” he said. “It is amazing to see young entrepreneurs furthering their education while making an impact in a field that will change the world.”

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