As the 2012-13 academic year began on Tuesday, Mars Hill College welcomed a record-setting student body that was 7% larger than last year at this time, and nearly 20% higher than two years ago.  The 1152 students who are currently registered for traditional classes, excluding adult and graduate studies, represent Mars Hill’s highest enrollment in over 30 years.  Of the 1152 total, 617 are continuing students who are returning after at least one semester at Mars Hill.  Students new to Mars Hill number 535, including 441 freshmen.  Together with students in Mars Hill Adult and Graduate Studies total enrollment at Mars Hill as of Tuesday, is 1396.