Now entering the NU Nexus...
We are now living in an era where the advent of emerging technologies has led us to a moment of extraordinary transformation in how we live, work, and govern. In the less than 4 years since the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT 3.5, 62% of U.S. adults now say they interact with AI at least several times a week. In higher education, surveys show 86% of students use AI to support their studies, though forthcoming figures may reveal that number to be closer to 95% or even higher.
The debate surrounding the implications of a technology like AI is limitless, much like its potential for net-positive augmentation in our daily lives. The exploration of all angles, arguments, and ambiguities surrounding AI is crucial in synthesizing a full–or mostly full–picture of what it can do and what we can do to safeguard our fundamental rights and democratic values.
There is no question of whether concerns about the privacy of our data and the security of our digital human rights are validated by current events. With the rise of big tech and its influence on our government and media, the line between fact and fiction is fading. Thus, the AI generation must figure out a way to ground our dignity and sustain our integrity in an ever-changing, unpredictable society. As young people, it is we who are left to forge a path forward. As students, it is we who are too often absent from conversations that could break the ground on forward-thinking, equitable change.
That is why I’m excited to introduce NU Nexus — Northeastern University's first student-run publication dedicated to exploring the complex relationship between technology, policy, and society.
What Is NU Nexus?
NU Nexus is a platform where students can engage thoughtfully with the most pressing technological questions of our time: How should AI systems be regulated? Who controls our digital identities? How do we balance innovation with privacy, security with freedom, progress with equity?
We aim to publish diverse, student-authored works, including, but not limited to: thorough research and analysis, thought-provoking op-eds, and interviews with faculty. Our goal is to engage both the student population and the experts in and around the Northeastern community who can enrich our understandings and foster dialogue at the forefront of technology policy. We want to center the diverse perspectives of the Northeastern community while building the analytical and communication skills students need to navigate the world that will become ours.
Why Northeastern?
Northeastern is uniquely positioned to lead these conversations. Our campuses and connections around the world bring together expertise across computer science, public policy, law, ethics, international affairs, and the social sciences. Our co-op program sends students into tech companies, law firms, policy organizations, and startups where they actively witness the very implications we aim to share and explore.
Today, a new unified student platform connecting these experiences and perspectives becomes available. Introducing our latest and most intelligent model: NU Nexus — like ChatGPT, but we actually cite our sources and admit when we don't know something.
Making it Possible
NU Nexus wouldn't exist without the support and guidance of incredible Northeastern faculty mentors. I'm deeply grateful to Professor Denise Garcia and Professor Beatrice Magistro, whose encouragement, insight, and commitment to students both in and out of the classroom have made this passion project possible.
What's Next
Over the coming weeks and months, we aim to reach as many students as possible in hopes of publishing meaningful pieces on AI governance, technology regulation, algorithmic accountability, digital rights, and the societal implications of emerging technologies... just to name a few topic ideas.
This platform belongs to the Northeastern community. Whether you are studying computer science or criminal justice, international affairs or engineering, economics or philosophy (or any combination of the above!) — if you're constantly thinking about how technology shapes society like I am, we want to hear from you.
NU Nexus is open to submissions from all Northeastern students. If you're interested in writing for us, joining our editorial team, or simply staying informed about the tech-policy conversations shaping our world, subscribe below! Also be sure to check out the "Write for Us" tab for information on how to submit your article to NU Nexus.
The road ahead will not be easy for both society and this publication! I have never pursued an endeavor quite this involved, so I please ask for your patience as we solidify ourselves within the Northeastern community and among the 600+ incredible clubs and organizations on campus. Although it is all a bit terrifying, progress starts with the willingness to ask hard questions, the courage to challenge assumptions, and the determination to contribute our voices to the most important debates of our generation.
You are now entering the NU Nexus… let’s get started!
Matthew Graves is the founder and editor-in-chief of NU Nexus and a third-year student studying Criminal Justice and Political Science with minors in Interdisciplinary AI, International Affairs, and Law & Public Policy at Northeastern University.