This qualitative research examines the experiences of graduate students participating in an introductory AI course at a College of Education to enhance AI curriculum design and pedagogy. In-depth interviews with six students revealed four principal themes: various motivations, collaborative learning in diverse groups, closer to machine learning, and learning from experience. Analysis indicated the need for successful integration of AI, emphasizing the necessity of a customized curriculum that caters to diverse student backgrounds and motivations, the effective execution of collaborative projects, and the importance of connecting AI principles to real-world problems. This research enhances understanding of the qualitative aspects of AI education and supports the development of an effective AI curriculum.