When I came to St. Lawrence College to study computers, I thought I would only learn about fixing laptops or using software. But one of the most exciting things I’ve learned is about emerging technology—which means new and powerful tools that people are starting to use more and more.
Some of these new technologies include things like:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – computers that can think and learn like humans.
- Robots – machines that can do tasks without people helping.
- Smart devices – like lights or fridges that connect to the internet.
- Cloud computing – storing and using information online instead of on one computer.
At first, I didn’t know much about these. But in class, we watched videos and did projects that showed how these tools are being used in real life. It made me really excited about the future!
Seeing Technology in Real Life
One day in class, our teacher showed us how farmers are using smart sensors in the fields to check the soil and help grow more food. I never thought farms used technology! We also learned how stores use AI to help answer customer questions automatically, like a robot chat.
This made me realize that new technology is everywhere—not just in big companies, but even in homes and schools.
Trying AI Tools Myself
For one assignment, I got to try out an AI tool that helped explain computer code. It was so cool to see how it worked. It gave me good ideas, but sometimes it also made mistakes. That’s when I understood something important: even smart computers need people to guide them.
I learned that technology is here to help us, but we still need to think carefully and make good choices.
Talking About Right and Wrong
In class, we also talked about how some new technology can cause problems. For example, cameras with face recognition can help with security, but they might not be fair to everyone. They could make mistakes or hurt people’s privacy.
Our teacher reminded us that just because we can make something doesn’t mean we should. That was a big lesson for me. It made me think about how important it is to use technology in a good and fair way.
How I Feel About the Future
At first, all these new ideas felt a little scary—there’s so much to learn! But now I feel excited. I know I won’t understand everything right away, but I want to keep learning step by step.
College is helping me become not just someone who uses computers, but someone who understands how the world is changing. I want to be part of that change and help others with the knowledge I gain.
Final Thoughts
Learning about emerging technology has been one of the best parts of my time at St. Lawrence College. It shows me how amazing the future can be—and that I can be a part of it.
Even though it might be hard sometimes, I’ve learned that staying curious, asking questions, and working hard can help me understand even the most advanced things.
And maybe one day, I’ll create something new that helps people too.