The first Living and Learning Villages were established on campus in fall 2003, and since that time the program has grown to include seven groups – making up 26 percent of the residential space on campus. Interest in these developments has continued to grow exponentially over the years and University Housing may not be able to accommodate for next semester.

As the University looks toward the future, these on-campus communities should be expanded and allowed to prosper. The programs make the University more friendly and accessible for students who would otherwise feel marginalized. On a campus of more than 30,000 individuals, one person can get lost in the crowd.

These villages were established to help create a greater sense of community for students with common interests living on campus. They require residents to participate in a variety of activities — both academic and extra-curricular in nature. This allows students to have rewarding college experiences, while staying within their comfort zones.

Although these residence areas have many advantages, it is important that they do not become a dividing force among the campus community. Many students come to N.C. State so they can experience a diverse campus, one that offers a multitude of social and academic opportunities. The villages should not break up that atmosphere of multiplicity.

Instead the villages should expound upon the University’s offerings and create a community atmosphere for those students who would prefer a smaller campus, but attend NCSU because of its superior academic standards. This way individuals will have all the options of a large campus, but the cohesiveness of a smaller one.

Considering the risks posed by these programs, Housing officials should be careful how they are shaped as time goes on. While these areas have a great deal to offer on-campus residents, individuals should define themselves first as a member of the NCSU campus community — not by a particular special interest group.

As the University continues to develop we must consider what kind of environment we want to create for future students. New programs need only to give students more opportunities for success — not limit their choices. A campus community, whether large or small, should be a place that students can feel welcome and at home.