Navigating IMSA: Your Guide to Acronyms, Slang, and Essential Knowledge

Welcome to the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA)! Whether you are an incoming sophomore or a seasoned upperclassman, IMSA has a unique culture filled with its own set of acronyms, slang, and traditions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate IMSA lingo and some must-know details about campus life.

AC Pit

Pronounced “ack pit,” this lecture room in the main building has many identifiable features, including glass doors, downward steps, and a wooden stage. This room is primarily used and reserved by teachers for test-taking but also hosts extracurriculars such as… The Acronym.

Access Road

A winding road around campus, often used for walks with friends or significant others. An IMSA experience isn’t complete without an Access walk. 

CAB – Campus Activities Board

Responsible for organizing and executing campus events, including the popular Clash of the Halls (sometimes referred to as CoTH).

CAC – College and Academic Counselors

Assigned to students based on last names, CACs assist with college-related decisions, financial aid, testing, and course selection.

Clash – CoTH, Clash of the Halls

A second-semester event where halls compete in various activities over a week, including hall decorations, riddles, and pep rallies.

IN2 – Center for Innovation & Inquiry

A space visible from the main entrance dedicated to innovation and inquiry, hosting extracurricular meetings, study sessions, and relaxation with friends.

IRC – Information Resource Center

The library upstairs, offering materials for checkout and resources like printers, is ideal for studying between classes.

ISP – IMSA Student Productions

Documents campus events through photos and videos. Join their Facebook page for access to these moments.

IVC – IMSA Virtual Campus

A crucial Facebook page for club and student body announcements.

LEAD – Leadership Education and Development

A mandatory program for sophomores teaching leadership skills through CORE in the first semester and electives like SocENT, EnACT, or IMPACT in the second semester, culminating in SLX.

SLX – Student Leadership and Education Exchange

The end-of-year event where sophomores present LEAD projects.

Mid-Day

The designated lunch period without classes, often bustling with students grabbing a quick bite.

NAV – Sophomore Navigation

A mandatory program for sophomores discussing various topics, complementing LEAD.

Old Caf

The area outside Lexington, now a spot for club events and dance practices.

RC – Resident Counselors

Each hall has 3-4 RCs acting as parental figures, ensuring safety and support.

RSL – Residential Student Leader

Halls have RSLs with different roles: Wing Liaison, HCC, and HDC, responsible for organizing events and promoting community.

SSA — Science Study Area

A quiet, out-of-the-way homework spot in the main building.

Shmen

Affectionate term for sophomores who skipped their 9th grade of high school. Variations include “pseudo shmen” and “super shmen.”

SIR – Student Inquiry and Research

Available to juniors and seniors on I-Days, offering research opportunities with IMSA teachers or Chicago-area professors.

Slabs

Areas in front of 1502 and 1505 with giant concrete blocks resembling benches, known for slab parties.

SoCC / JCC / SCC

Class clubs: Sophomore Class Club, Junior Class Club, and Senior Class Club, raising money for prom and negotiating privileges.

Lexington

The cafeteria, infamous for its repetitive food but a place of many student memories.

Stunion – Student Union

A hangout spot near the main gym with a dance studio and ping pong table.

TV Pit 

Next to Old Caf, a meeting spot for students and clubs.

U Benches

Benches at the bottom of staircases, designated for each class but open to all students.

Yare

The field between the main building and the first four halls, named after a statue with letters resembling Y, A, R, and E from different angles.

Whether you’re reminiscing or just starting out, this guide will help you understand and embrace IMSA’s unique culture. Enjoy your time here, and don’t hesitate to ask upperclassmen if you need further clarification!