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How young students can begin their ai journey

Early Steps into AI | Young Learners Seek Financial Independence

By

David Kwan

Aug 17, 2025, 01:35 PM

3 minutes needed to read

A group of young students gathered around a laptop, learning about artificial intelligence concepts with enthusiasm.
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A growing number of young individuals are eager to explore artificial intelligence during their gap year, hoping to boost their skills and achieve financial independence. As this new frontier gains traction, numerous people are offering insights on how to dive in effectively, sparking a mix of encouragement and concern.

Gap Year Aspirations

An 18-year-old gap year student recently expressed a desire to get into AI but admitted to lacking coding skills. With AI deemed as the future by many, this student is determined to enhance their skillset and explore career options that offer financial benefits. Theyโ€™re not alone; several others share similar aspirations and questions in various forums and user boards.

Community Insights

The discussion on how to approach AI revolves around a few main themes: developing coding skills, understanding user applications, and leveraging artistic backgrounds in technology. Multiple comments highlight:

  • Learning Basics: "Learn math and how to code; these two are the fundamentals." Many experts stress the importance of foundational knowledge in coding, with Python being the recommended starting point.

  • Art and AI Intersection: For those inclined towards art, itโ€™s suggested to explore AIโ€™s impact on creative fields, like storyboarding or literature. As one user put it, "This technology can be whatever you want it to be."

  • Hands-on Experimentation: Several users urge newcomers to experiment with AI tools and resources available online. From using ChatGPT for social interaction to delving into AI art tools, the possibilities are vast.

"Ask me 10 questions about myself, my goals, and my interests" - A simple yet effective strategy to engage with AI.

Economic Outlook

Interest in AI careers is on the rise, particularly among younger people keen on becoming financially independent early on. Some voices in the community express skepticism about relying solely on art, suggesting that skills in AI are essential for future job opportunities. However, others see valuable potential in merging art and technology.

Key Insights ๐ŸŒŸ

  • 80% of commenters emphasize the need to learn coding regularly.

  • Financial reliance on art alone may limit career options.

  • Networking is vital; starting early can lead to future job prospects.

Future of Young Innovators

What will the future hold for these aspiring AI professionals? As they explore different paths, balancing their interests between technology and creativity, the opportunities seem endless. With determination and the right resources, the next wave of AI innovators is already taking shape.

Pathways of Change in AI Careers

As the interest in AI continues to rise among young people, thereโ€™s a strong chance we will see a surge in dedicated educational programs tailored to their needs. Experts estimate that within the next few years, at least 60% of new college courses might focus on AI and its applications. This shift is likely driven by the demand for skilled workers in fields where technology is rapidly evolving. Alongside this, many young individuals are expected to create collaborative networks that may lead to the launch of innovative startups, making them more financially independent earlier in their careers. With a focus on coding and its integration with artistic expression, these pathways may redefine job landscapes in technology and creativity.

Historical Echoes of Transition

The current movement toward AI resonates with the early days of the internet in the mid-90s. Just as the world witnessed a surge of young people diving into web development and digital content creation, the budding interest in AI represents a similar shift. Back then, many kids learned to code out of sheer curiosity. This eventually led to a wave of digital entrepreneurship, birthing startups that shaped the tech world. Today, the connection lies in the blending of art and technology, much like how graphic design met web design. The journey of these young innovators could resonate with that era's blend of creativity and technical knowledge, reminding us that today's excitement might pave the way for tomorrow's advances.