A new Lumina Foundation–Gallup poll finds college students are using generative AI frequently even when institutions discourage or prohibit it. Surveyed students reported using tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini daily or weekly, while about half said some professors have not set clear AI policies and only 7% said institutions encourage AI use as much as possible. The findings come as students reassess majors and institutions amid workforce uncertainty. More than 40% of bachelor’s students and over half of associate-seekers said generative AI has prompted them to consider changing their major or field of study. The report’s central message for leaders is not compliance alone, but clearer expectations and practical training—so AI use aligns with learning goals and workplace readiness.