From the earliest days of the Institute’s existence, MIT faculty recognized that extracurricular activities were vital to their students’ education.

To that end, MIT has always encouraged as many projects as students could dream up. One of the most significant academic innovations at the Institute was the creation of the Independent Activities Period (IAP). Four weeks of unfettered exploration, experimentation, and education - purely for the joy or personal enrichment.

For many MIT alums, IAP holds a dear place in our memories. A whole month to explore interesting topics, play with new ideas, compete in fun tournaments, and just get outside of their comfort zones.

For over 40 years IAP offerings range from astrophysics to chocolate truffle making, from the MIT Mystery Hunt to liquid nitrogen ice-cream, from lock-picking to "Charm School" from the 6.270 Robotics Competition to the most (in)famous 70s seminar taught the rudiments of card counting - “How To Gamble if You Will” by the Blackjack Club which later was fictionalized into a two bestselling books and a movie.

Here at the MIT Club of Northern California, we look to recreate a IAP ...just for 1 day and are planning to host a variety of events for our alumni to bring back the excitement novelty and joy of IAP.

We will also have co-working space available if you really have to be behind a screen.

IAP offerings are distinguished by their variety, innovative spirit and fusion of fun and learning - Relive IAP in San Francisco ....  Detailed Agenda in formation!

10:00am-8:30pm:  Mini-Escape Room Experience