Her daughters were CEOs of YouTube and 23andMe. Her advise for parents in the AI era? Send your kids to college.

Esther Wojcicki, renowned educator and mother of former CEOs from YouTube and 23andMe, emphasizes the enduring value of a college education, even amidst the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. In a recent episode of the 'Silicon Valley Girl' podcast, Wojcicki shared her perspective on the critical role that college experiences play in developing interpersonal skills necessary for success in life. During the discussion with host Marina Mogilko, Wojcicki strongly advocated for higher education, countering the notion that online learning could replace traditional college experiences. "College is an opportunity for you to hone your interaction with other human beings skills. It's a time for personal growth," she stated, highlighting the importance of social interactions during the formative years of 18 to 22. Wojcicki's insights come at a time when the impact of AI on education is a hot topic. A Gallup survey earlier this year revealed that 16% of college students have altered their majors in response to the influence of AI. Business magnate Mark Cuban has also weighed in, advising his college-aged children to focus on opportunities in small and medium businesses that are increasingly in need of AI implementation. Adding to the conversation, AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio, often referred to as the 'Godfather of AI,' shared similar sentiments regarding the importance of human skills. He encourages young people to invest in personal development, emphasizing that qualities that define a good human being will remain valuable, even as machines take on more tasks. As parents and educators navigate the changing landscape of education influenced by technology, Wojcicki's message serves as a reminder of the unique benefits that college can offer in fostering essential life skills.