The average student at the University of South Alabama is nearly 26 years old, and students at universities nationwide are getting older, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Across the country, much of the growth is in female enrollment. Nationally, between 1988 and 1998, the number of men enrolled rose 6 percent, while the number of women enrolled rose 16 percent. At the University of South Alabama, with more than 12,300 students, the enrollment is now 60 percent female.

Who are these older students that are going back to college, or going for the first time? What are their goals? How do they balance families, jobs and school?

Tonight, adults interested in enrolling at the University of South Alabama for the upcoming fall semester of classes have been invited to attend USA’s Adult Student Preview Night from 6-7:30 p.m., Monday, July 22, in the John Counts Room of the USA Mitchell Center. You are invited to attend and interview these prospective students and the University’s advisors.

Admission, class registration and scheduling, choosing a major, financial assistance, and career and support services will be discussed by successful USA adult graduates and University officials.