It’s the goal of every incoming student at MIT to get their own Brass Rat—MIT’s version of a class ring. The phrase “Brass Rat” is derived from the alleged resemblance of the brass beaver featured on the ring to a rat.
Why is it called the Brass Rat?
Life and culture FAQs
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FAQ / Life and culture
Are the Arts active on campus?
More than 50 percent of incoming first-years have prior training in the arts, and more than half of all MIT undergrads enroll in arts courses each year—with nearly half of… -
FAQ / Life and culture
Are volunteer opportunities available?
At the Priscilla King Gray Public Service Center (PKG Center), you can connect with a variety of public service projects in local, national, and global communities. The PKG Center can also… -
FAQ / Life and culture
Can I join a fraternity/sorority?
MIT’s Fraternity, Sorority, and Independent Living Groups (FSILGs) include 26 fraternities, 10 sororities, and five living groups. With core principles of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship, the FSILG Office encourages and… -
FAQ / Life and culture
Can I join the Design/Build/Fly Team?
The MIT Design/Build/Fly team is composed mostly of undergraduate students, but is also open to graduate students, who compete in the annual AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition. The competition involves designing, manufacturing,… -
FAQ / Life and culture
Can I play football at MIT?
The 2014 Engineers were the winningest (real word!) MIT football team ever! In front of an enthusiastic home crowd on Senior Night, the MIT football team completed its historic regular…