Get started with Copilot, Gemini, and LibreChat at Bowdoin

Questions

  • Which AI tools can I use with my Bowdoin account?
  • How do I sign in to Microsoft Copilot with my Bowdoin credentials?
  • Can I use Google Gemini with my Bowdoin account?
  • How do I access Bowdoin's LibreChat and what AI models are available?
  • What is the difference between Copilot, Gemini, and LibreChat?
  • What are the guidelines for safe and responsible use of AI tools at Bowdoin?
  • Where do I go to start using AI tools provided by Bowdoin?

Environment

This article applies to all Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using a modern web browser on a Bowdoin-managed or personal device, on or off campus. It covers three AI tools accessible with a Bowdoin account: Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and LibreChat (Bowdoin's multi-model AI chat platform).

  • Who: All current Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff
  • What: Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and LibreChat — all accessible via Bowdoin single sign-on where available
  • Not covered: Consumer AI accounts not connected to your Bowdoin login (personal ChatGPT, personal Claude.ai, etc.)
Note for students: LibreChat requires completion of the Learning Paths into GenAI course in Canvas before access is activated. Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini do not have this prerequisite.

Resolution

Microsoft Copilot

  1. Go to copilot.microsoft.com.
  2. If you're not already signed in, select Sign in. Select Continue with Microsoft and enter your Bowdoin email. Select Work or school account then sign in with your Bowdoin email and password.
  3. Type your question or task in the chat box to get started.

Google Gemini

  1. Go to gemini.google.com.
  2. Select Sign in and sign in using your Bowdoin Google account (your @bowdoin.edu address).
  3. If prompted to choose between a personal and work account, choose your Bowdoin account to ensure enterprise data protections apply.
  4. Type your question or task to begin.

LibreChat (Bowdoin's multi-model AI platform)

LibreChat gives you access to multiple AI models — including OpenAI GPT and Anthropic Claude — through a single Bowdoin login. See Access AI at Bowdoin with LibreChat in the Related Articles section for full setup instructions. Quick steps:

  1. Go to login.bowdoin.edu and select the LibreChat tile.
  2. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials if prompted.
  3. Select a model from the menu in the upper-left corner of the chat window.

Good practices for all AI tools

  • Do not paste confidential, personal, or restricted information into any AI tool.
  • Double-check facts and cite original sources — AI responses can be incorrect or incomplete.
  • Keep copies of important outputs if you need them later, as chats may be cleared or expire.
  • Follow any course, research, or departmental guidelines on acceptable use of AI at Bowdoin.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Additional Resources

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