Empowering Learning with AI: Venessa’s AI Journey at HSS

Venessa (罗丽静), a recent graduate of the Master’s programme in International Business and Global Affairs at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, is making waves with her innovative thinking on the use of AI in education. Hailing from Pontianak, West Borneo, Indonesia, Venessa joined XJTLU in 2019 and completed her postgraduate studies with distinction this year.

During her time at HSS, Venessa not only maintained an outstanding academic record—with a GPA of 3.88 and active roles in student leadership—but also explored how emerging technologies like AI could support and enhance the student learning experience. Her thoughtful and creative engagement with AI reflects a growing interest among students in understanding how technology can be integrated meaningfully into education.

At the 2024 XIPU AI in Education Innovation Competition, hosted by XJTLU’s Learning Mall, Venessa’s project “AI in Action: Maximizing Learning Efficiency with AI Tools” took first prize among nearly 70 participants. She developed a course combining practical guidance on AI tools with critical reflection on ethical usage, addressing the everyday needs of students. It included interactive lessons, guided practice, and self-assessment modules designed to help learners take control of their study habits using AI—without outsourcing the learning process itself.

“AI shouldn’t be a shortcut—it should be a smart companion,” Venessa explained. “I’ve seen students overly rely on AI to write their papers. But that’s not real learning. With the right understanding, AI can help manage your time, structure your thoughts, and even reduce procrastination.”

XJTLU’s strong support for AI projects played a key role in her path. The University has been actively embedding AI into the classroom, from smart tools used in coursework to the launch of XIPU AI—a custom-built platform that includes academic writing assistants, language learning bots, intelligent search, and even video production support. These tools are not just available; they are integrated into curricula and student life through workshops, training days, and university-level initiatives.

Venessa was later invited to speak at “AI Learning Day: Innovation, Inspiration, Impact,” organized by XJTLU’s Centre for Knowledge and Information (CKI), where she introduced her work to a wider audience and explored the broader vision behind AI for education at XJTLU.

“Having access to AI tools like XIPU AI, and being in a university that actively encourages experimentation and ethical awareness, gave me the confidence to pursue my ideas,” Venessa shared.

Beyond the spotlight, Venessa served as Student Chair at HSS, actively participating in school-level academic committees and communication activities. Her leadership reflects the School’s emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking, ethical practice, and global citizenship—all of which are vital in a world increasingly shaped by AI.

“AI is powerful, but it can’t replace the inspiration we get from books, people, and places,” she reflected, quoting *The Alchemist*: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

As she looks toward her future, Venessa continues to advocate for responsible AI use—an approach she shaped through the dynamic learning environment of XJTLU and the supportive academic culture of HSS. Her story is a shining example of how international students are not only benefitting from, but also helping to shape, XJTLU’s journey into the AI era.

Reporter: Yiyi Gu

Photographer: Lezhi Li, Venessa