Debbie Downer found a new thing to worry about: AI and data centers

During a spirited commencement speech at Dartmouth College, actress and comedian Rachel Dratch brought laughter and a dose of reality to graduates regarding the role of artificial intelligence in the job market. Known for her iconic character Debbie Downer from 'SNL', Dratch used humor to address the anxieties surrounding AI. As she donned the persona of Debbie Downer, Dratch remarked, "Quite an achievement graduating from Dartmouth. Of course, thanks to AI, there won’t be any jobs left, so congrats to all on your mandatory gap years." Her signature deadpan delivery was accompanied by the familiar trombone sound, eliciting chuckles from the audience. Dratch continued with her tongue-in-cheek commentary on the future of education and employment, saying, "Sadly, due to the construction of data centers and the impending water wars, the most useful college majors now are foraging and hand-to-hand combat." This humorous take reflects a broader societal concern about the impact of AI on future job prospects. The topic of AI has been a hot button issue at many graduation ceremonies this year, as new graduates face a job market impacted by evolving technology. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that only 16% of Americans feel positively about AI's effects on daily life, while 40% hold a negative view. Before her speech, Dratch was honored with an honorary doctorate from Dartmouth, quipping about her quick path to earning a degree compared to the graduates' four-year journey. "Not to brag, but I am also earning a degree here today," she joked, capturing the spirit of the moment while underscoring the challenges ahead for the new graduates.