OpenAI Student CollectiveUniversity of AlbertaSee events

Free ChatGPT Plus at workshops

Explore AIwith us.

OpenAI’s student program. Right here at UAlberta.

Get to know us

An OpenAI program

So, what’s the Collective?

The Student Collective is OpenAI’s campus program for learning and building with ChatGPT and Codex. At UAlberta, that means workshops, drop-in studio sessions, and a place to work on your own ideas. All the tools you need to start creating will be provided for free.

Come try something new, get help with a project, or meet people outside your usual classes. No coding experience needed.

Included

Come to a workshop and you’ll get a free month of ChatGPT Plus on your personal account.

About the program at OpenAI

On campus

Events at UAlberta

On campus, with people from every program.
No experience needed.

Upcoming

See what’s coming up on our calendar.

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A look back

Past events

Workshops, ideas, and community moments from across campus.

Photos coming soon

October 29, 2026

Halloween Mixer

A campus community mixer hosted by Ada’s Team, with the Student Collective and fellow student groups.

View event
Photos coming soon

October 24, 2026

Alberta Non-for-Profit Association Workshop #2

A Student Collective workshop alongside the Alberta Non-for-Profit Association.

View event
Photos coming soon

October 23–24, 2026

Case for a Cause collaboration

With the Alberta Non-for-Profit Association, exploring how AI can support case solving for nonprofits.

View event
Photos coming soon

October 8, 2026

Create Your Own Personalized Newsletter

A hands-on introduction to creating a personal newsletter with ChatGPT Work.

View event

What we run

  • Students attending an OpenAI workshop in a lecture hall.

    Workshops

    Try the latest AI tools and build something new, with guidance along the way.

  • Students collaborating around a table at an OpenAI community event.

    Studio Sessions

    Bring your project, find people to work with, and get help when you need it.

  • A speaker presenting a project at an OpenAI community event.

    Showcases

    Share what you’ve made and see what other students are creating with AI.

Photos from the wider OpenAI Student Collective.

Get event updates

Your Campus Leads

We’re Caden and Michael.

We’re your OpenAI Campus Leads at UAlberta. Find us at a workshop, or come say hi on Discord.

Caden and Michael standing together in front of the green and gold A on the University of Alberta campus.
Caden and Michael in main quad
  • Caden Johnson

    Caden Johnson

    Campus Lead

    BSc Honours in Computing Science (Artificial Intelligence)

    LinkedInInstagram
  • Michael Seguin

    Michael Seguin

    Campus Lead

    BCom in Accounting, with a minor in Strategy Management and a Certificate in Leadership

    LinkedInInstagram

Before you come

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the OpenAI Student Collective?

    The OpenAI Student Collective is an official program that helps university students learn about AI and gain hands-on experience with tools like ChatGPT and Codex.

  • Who can participate?

    Students, staff, and faculty from the University of Alberta community are welcome to participate.

  • Do I need experience with AI or programming?

    No. Our events are designed for a range of experience levels, including complete beginners.

  • Are events free?

    Yes, Student Collective events are free to attend.

  • Do I need a paid ChatGPT subscription?

    No. Any tools or subscriptions required for an event will be provided.

  • What should I bring?

    Bring a laptop if you have one. Lab computers may also be available depending on the event.

More questions (11)
  • What is the difference between a workshop and a studio session?

    Workshops are structured sessions focused on a specific topic or tool. Studio sessions are more flexible and give you time to ask questions, work on projects, and get help.

  • How do I register for an event?

    Register through our events calendar. Registration details are also posted in the Discord announcements channel.

  • Where are events held?

    Events are held in person at the University of Alberta. The exact location will be included on each event page.

  • What if I register but cannot attend?

    Please cancel or update your registration so we have an accurate idea of attendance.

  • Will materials be shared afterward?

    Slides, resources, or other materials may be shared when possible. Recordings are not guaranteed.

  • Can the Collective help with a personal project?

    Yes. Studio sessions are a great place to bring questions, work on a project, or get feedback.

  • Can I use AI for coursework?

    That depends on the course and assignment. Always follow your instructor’s guidance. If you are unsure, ask your instructor before using AI.

  • How can I request accessibility accommodations?

    Complete our accessibility request form. Please submit requests as early as possible so we have time to make the necessary arrangements.

  • How can I suggest an event or workshop topic?

    Send Caden or Michael a message with your idea. We are always open to suggestions.

  • Is the Collective run by OpenAI?

    The Student Collective is an official OpenAI program. This chapter, including this site and our Discord server, is managed by the University of Alberta Campus Leads.

  • Where can I ask something that is not here?

    Ask in the Discord, or contact Caden or Michael directly.