Microsoft: it's a big name! Microsoft makes many tools, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, but did you know that as a CC student, you have access to licenses for all three? Not only that, but Microsoft tools such as Sway can help you make small portfolio sites.
Want to try it out? Go to the main Sway landing page and look for the project called "How to Sway." You can also view Microsoft's help guide.
Most students at Columbia College have access to several licenses for Microsoft products, which you can download and install on different devices such as a laptop or tablet.
To install Office 365 (the Microsoft bundle), log onto your webmail here, then go to your Microsoft 365 page here. You may be able to skip directly to the account page if you are already logged in.
At that top of that screen, look for the installation link:
Click the "Install and more" button, then select "Install Microsoft 365 apps":
From there, you can look for the option to install Office 365 apps, and it will provide download links whether you're on a Windows or Mac device.
You can also look for apps in the Play Store or App Store, depending on your phone or tablet. Just make sure that the app is from Microsoft to ensure it's safe to install!
Regardless of how you download the program or app, you'll need to log in with your CC e-mail address and password to finish activating the license.
If you've used Google Docs to write your paper but need to use Word to finish the formatting—or submit your paper on Canvas—it's easy to export as a Word document!
Go to File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx).
The pop-up usually appears when the program is showing as being "unlicensed." If you have downloaded Office 365 using the instructions above, you should be able to license your program!
Click through the slides on the pop-up and, when asked, log in with your CC e-mail address and password. This will connect the program to your account and activate it so that you can use it. Note that you'll need to be online for the activation to work, so if you are seeing any errors here, check that your Internet is working.
This can be frustrating, since it connects to not just your e-mail and Office 365 apps, but Canvas as well. If you are unable to log in, contact the IT Help Desk or visit them directly on the lower level of J. Drake Edens Library. You may need to contact your professors to let them know you are working to resolve the issue.
No, don't click it just yet! You've likely been phished. 🐟
Phishing is where folks try to scam people into giving them information or access to their accounts—like your Microsoft login!
If you are concerned about an e-mail, get in touch with the recipient if they are from the college (such as your professor or a friend, depending on who its from). If it is from outside the college or you're feeling unsure, contact the IT Help Desk to confirm how you should proceed.
Not sure what you're looking for? Check out this recording of Spot the Phish!, which shares some things to watch out for with "phishy" e-mails.
