Hitting the books at any age

Who is the typical student of higher learning in America?

Nearly half of Americans ages 25 and older - 92 million people - take part in some form of continuing education. They may be mothers or grandfathers, white-collar professionals or soldiers. They may study online or attend college summer sessions. Some just want to learn how to paint a Maine coastal scene, but the majority are enrolled in work-related training, and many are earning degrees.

No matter who they are, though, their openness to lifelong learning shows that individuals have a great capacity to adapt, learn, and contribute - at any age. Adult ed reflects an American belief in reinventing one's self through education, and it contributes to the country's competitiveness.

Seniors have more choices than ever when it comes to lectures or workshops. They can enroll at a local university or simply attend a day-long seminar taught by Ivy League professors. Retirees see lifelong learning as a way to stay mentally active, make new friends, and get to those subjects they never had time for.