A comprehensive picture of the student body of the 1990s is presented with specific recommendations to higher education policymakers, faculty, and administrators for meeting the needs of this increasingly diverse student population. It minimizes the emphasis on long-term projections and focuses on the years 1989-2000. Chapters are written by scholars who have achieved a reputation for studying particular populations. Nine chapters in Two main sections are presented by "Introduction: A Time of Uncertainty" (Arthur Levine). The first section, "Demographic Changes Ahead for Higher Education" presents: "Traditional College-Age Students" (Lewis C. Solomon), "Hispanics" (Gary Orfield), "Blacks" (Gail E. Thomas and Deborah J. Hirsch), "Asians" (Bob H. Suzuki), and "Older Students" (William F. Brazziel). The second section, "Thinking Realistically about Demographic Projections and Planning" presents: "Demography Is Not Destiny in Higher Education" (Richard A. Easterlin) and "Uses and Misuses of Demographic Projections: Lessons for the 1990s" (Carol Frances). "Conclusions and Recommendations: Creating a Brighter Educational Future" (Arthur Levine) brings the collection to a close. (SM)