'Right direction': Enrollment continues to grow
Officials cite several reasons for the increase, including the availability of more student housing.
YOUNGSTOWN -- The number of students enrolled at Youngstown State University at the end of the first day of spring semester Tuesday was 12,327, up 185 students from the same day last spring semester.
"We keep moving in the right direction," said Bill Countryman, YSU interim executive director of enrollment services.
Official enrollment numbers will be reported to the Ohio Board of Regents on Feb. 1, the 14th day of classes.
Countryman said he thinks the continued growth is because of several factors, including a universitywide focus on enrollment.
"I think we've really developed a good team approach across campus, among employees and especially students, when it comes to increasing enrollment," he said. "We're all pulling on the same rope in the same direction."
More factors
Other factors he noted for increased enrollment:
UConstruction of the $12.1 million Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center, which is expected to open for fall semester.
UBeefed-up marketing and advertising efforts.
ULow tuition compared to other universities in the region.
UMore student housing, including the new University Courtyard Apartments in Smoky Hollow.
UNew academic programs.
UIncreased staff in the admissions office.
UMore timely distribution of financial aid offers.
UThe availability of online applications.
The university has set an enrollment goal of 14,000 by fall 2008.
"We keep moving toward that goal, and we've been successful in doing that so far," Countryman said.