Get started with Copilot, Gemini, and LibreChat at Bowdoin

The article explains which AI tools Bowdoin community members can use and how to access them: Microsoft Copilot with a Bowdoin work/school sign-in, Google Gemini typically with a personal Google account, and Bowdoin’s LibreChat via the Login Portal to reach multiple models (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic). It also outlines safe-use practices—avoid sharing confidential data, verify outputs, save important results, and follow course or departmental rules—and provides links for sign-in and technology reso

Questions

• Which AI tools can I use with my Bowdoin account?
• How do I sign in to Microsoft Copilot chat?
• Can I use Google Gemini with my Bowdoin credentials?
• How do I access Bowdoin’s LibreChat and what models are available?
• What are the basic guidelines for safe, responsible use of these tools?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using a modern web browser on Bowdoin-managed or personal devices, on or off campus. It covers access to Microsoft Copilot chat, Google Gemini, and Bowdoin’s LibreChat (a web app providing access to multiple AI models) via single sign-on where available.

Resolution

1. Use Microsoft Copilot chat with your Bowdoin account

   • Go to Microsoft Copilot.
   • Select “Sign in” and choose “Work or school account,” then sign in with your Bowdoin email and password.
   • If you see a notice such as “Commercial data protection” under your profile, your chats are protected under Microsoft’s enterprise protections. For details, see Data, Privacy, and Protections in Microsoft Copilot.
   • If sign-in is not available, you can still use Copilot without signing in, but do not enter confidential or personal information.

2. Use Google Gemini (typically with a personal Google account)

   • Go to Google Gemini.
   • Sign in with your Bowdoin email address for secure, single sign-on access.
   • Availability and features may vary by Google account type. Learn more in About Gemini.

3. Use Bowdoin’s LibreChat to reach multiple AI models

   • Go to the Bowdoin Login Portal and sign in.
   • Select the “LibreChat” tile to open the chat interface.
   • Choose a model from the menu. Options may include providers such as OpenAI (ChatGPT), Anthropic, and others made available by Bowdoin.
   • For background on the tool itself, see the LibreChat project overview.

4. 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.

5. Helpful Bowdoin links

   • Sign in to Microsoft 365 services like Outlook: Outlook on the Web
   • Find web apps in one place: Bowdoin Login Portal
   • General Bowdoin technology resources: Technology Services and Resources

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.