A Reflection on ChatGPT

The presence of ChatGPT has been growing steadily in Attie Rimmel ‘25’s life. 

“Well, I first used ChatGPT super minimally. Honestly, just to help me do background research for classes. But then I realized the possibilities were endless! I started using it to write my discussion posts and, eventually, my papers. At this point I still heavily edited them before submitting, of course. It was mainly my own work. Yet eventually all of my papers tended to be written by ChatGPT. My professors couldn’t tell the difference! I was hooked.”

“I then started using ChatGPT to respond to emails. I even used it to make plans and send texts to friends. Last week, I realized I could take it even further.” And take it further she did.

“I tweaked my friend’s ENGS12 project – a humanoid robot – with ample help from ChatGPT, of course. I coded in some elements of my personality. With help from my friends who were able to get into CS 50, bona fide geniuses, we augmented the ChatGPT robot to have a vocal interface. It was up and running! This robot version of me attended all of my classes, participated in my clubs, hung out with my friends, called my parents, and even met new people as me! It did everything I needed it to do! What a convenient time-saver!”

“My life is so much better now. I have no inconvenient tasks left and so much free time. In fact, I have absolutely nothing to do at all! All day! This is awesome. Isn’t it? Isn’t it?!” Attie unloaded while crumbling into tears. Her benevolent ChatGPT robot brought her tissues.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a ChatGPT addiction, please seek help before it’s too late. SAMHSA National Toll-Free Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

Disclaimer: A significant portion of this article was written by ChatGPT.

—VP ‘25