For decades, many universities have attached themes to some of its residence halls, encouraging students with similar interests to live among each other, such as outdoor enthusiasts or sci-fi buffs. Some schools also designate housing for students intent on fluency in a foreign language so that they can better immerse themselves. Meanwhile, ethnic theme housing springs from college officials' efforts to provide supportive environments to minorities and underrepresented students at predominantly White institutions. Housing officials say it also creates opportunities for majority students to learn more about people different from them by living among them. However, this article observes that, while ethnic-themed dorms offer a supportive environment for minorities, some critics say that they stunt personal growth by promoting self-segregation.