Lyon College
Batesville, AR, USA

Reviews

Lyon College

Karisala from O Fallon, IL

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Lyon College provides a very aggressive academic program, their classes are invigorating, challenging, interesting and provide interaction with an amazing faculty. The homework helps to make the information in class concrete within the memory. And finally the overall information covered in class allows for much to be covered.
Am enjoying being here
The college and surrounding area is amazing. People are very friendly, the college staff is helpful and the area's people really support the college being there and its students. The communtity has all the essentials and offers great opportunties for communtity service. The only downfall is that there is less to do outside of the college if you do not have a ride, the way to deal with that though... is to make friends who do...
Bang for the buck
As a private school, the college is very well priced and the products of your money can be seen throughout campus. However, the dorm facilities do not leave that final impression of twenty eight thousand dollars a year...
Tips for prospective students
First, if you think Lyon is the college for you, make sure you've taken a tour of the area and the campus. Think about all that you like to do and make sure that the area has it, or most of it available.
Secondly, if you want to spend a lot of time off-campus, bring a vehicle. There are community bikes that are great for quick trips but for the late night runs to Walmart for coffee and snacks, for the trips out to eat... a car is needed. The college does give opportunities for nights out on the town, when they pay for you to eat dinner, dessert, and go watch a movie, plus, there is free bowling and movies on the weekend... finally, the next thing you should consider is how much time you want to put in, the average time it takes for me to do all of my homework is about 2x the time I spend in class. So for a three times a week class, I do about 6 hours of homework and so forth.
Great for these types of students
Scottish heritage, academic based, students who are wanting to go into English, Law, the sciences, students who love good teachers and students who like to party in safe and the less safe ways ;)

Spencer from Jonesboro, AR

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lyon College is definitely an academically challenging school, but worth the time and effort. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus in various organizations or even academic groups. With such a small campus, it feels like a second home with a whole new family.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready to put in lots of hard work to achieve your goals here. While it's not going to take up ALL of your time, it requires some commitment and determination. Be prepared to work hard with professors that will work hard with you until you overcome any hurdles. And don't forget to have some fun. Plenty to do on campus.
Academic Rigor
This curriculum is challenging, but you can do it with a little effort, i promise.
Dorm Life
Not the greatest dorms, but definitely livable. New additions and renovations are made to the dorms every year. (i.e. my dorm building got granite bathrooms last summer)
Food and Dining
The food is tolerable, but Lyon offers Flex dollars that can be spent at local restaurants if you get sick of the cafeteria meals.
What to do for fun
Lyon's LEAP (Lyon Education & Adventure Program) takes trip rock climbing, kayaking, skydiving, camping, biking, etc. on a regular basis. There are numerous clubs to join to fit any taste, from recycling to art to Greek life to just sitting around and playing card games. Honestly, you won't get bored if you go outside looking for something to do.
Bang for the buck
Lyon is pretty pricey, and sometimes it seems like you're not getting your money's worth. But you can discuss this with a financial advisor, any professor, or even the president of the college at any time to find out what all you're getting. By the end of the year, it's obvious that you're getting a quality education at a higher grade school for a reasonable price.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Scottish Fest is definitely an unusual, but extremely entertaining, event that takes place on campus every spring. Lots of vendors, food, games, history, shows, and more go on during the weekend of Scot Fest. The bagpipes are played year-around though.
Great for these types of students
Academically driven, wanting to create stronger credentials with powerful connections, and able to relax after a long week of study and classes. Also, Students who like to support their sports teams. Lyon has a handful of nationally ranked athletic teams that are always grateful for supporters.
Clubs and Activities
Lyon is full of clubs to join. My first year, I became a member of the Art Student League, Student Government, the APPLE Upward Bound program, Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, Resident Life Staff, and participate in other extra-curricular activities around campus like disc golf, intramurals, ultimate frisbee, tennis, and even just going to the gym on campus.
Greek Life
Lyon's Greek life is limited with only 3 fraternities and 3 sororities, but their size makes them each little families in their own that possess an incredible level of unity. Definitely recommend going Greek.
Campus Safety
Campus safety usually isn't a problem. In such a small town, there isn't much that comes on campus to disturb it (other than the occasional uninvited towns-person on weekends that is usually removed promptly). Overall, the crime scene is pretty uneventful.

Rachel from Marmaduke, AR

researching this school
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The teachers here really get into their subject. If you don't get something from the lesson they will try everything in their power to help you understand it.
Will enjoy being here
When I toured this college, I immediately got a homey feel. The campus was beautiful. Even though the cafeteria and other buildings had been burned down, the plans for new buildings were magnificent. The weather was pleasant. The library had shelves of books and if the library didn't have a book you needed they would find a library that did and get it for you.
Tips for prospective students
Lyon has GREAT food. There are a variety of food lines, but there is something about being able to bring a recipe from home and the head cook there make it for you. Batesville also has a number of fine restaurants around town that are at reasonable prices for college students.
Great for these types of students
This is a school that would be great for students who are used to small classes. The teachers are wonderful and are very helpful. Just going into one of their offices to ask one question will take an hour if not more because they enjoy their students and they want to know how you are doing.

Cheyenne from West Fork, AR

researching this school
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The campus is extremely pretty and very inviting. There is a large diversity of students here at the college and they seem to get along well in the community. The students take part in activities and work together through a lot of things.
Tips for prospective students
Get a map for campus until you learn the campus, that way you dont miss any classes. Try to get involved with different activities that way you will make a name for yourself out side of just classes. You'll also meet a lot more people that way.
Academic Rigor
The school is pretty prestigious when it comes to academics, so it's best to keep your grades in check.
Dorm Life
The dorms are comfortable and affordable. There is plenty of space for you and your friends to just hang out after a long day of study.
Food and Dining
There are plenty of places on campus to eat and several good places to eat outside of campus

Katheryn from Batesville, AR

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lyon College is easily the most tightly-knit community in the entire state of Arkansas. All of the students, regardless of their class, know each other and are just as willing as the teachers to help out. It is good at making you feel safe, loved, and prepared for the real world with its grueling curriculum and fantastic faculty.
Tips for prospective students
Go to the Supplemental Instruction (SI) sessions to make sure you're properly prepared for your classes. Get involved in the community; people are more than willing to accept you so it's a good time to find yourself. Study hard and take all of your classes seriously; there is not an easy class on campus.
Academic Rigor
As aforementioned, it is top notch; they are especially good at helping you build a major that fits your needs. While the classes may be difficult, the teachers are willing to work with you to make sure you understand, even if it means taking time out of their personal schedule. As long as you work hard, each class you take will make you a better student.
Dorm Life
The dorms are dorms; there's not much to be said about them. They can be home if you make it home. They're cleaned regularly, have constant courtesy hours to insure easy studying, and the RA's are always there for you to talk.
Food and Dining
It's average cafeteria food, but the staff really make it worth it. They'll chat with you and make your day if you're down. The dessert is award winning and top notch however.
What to do for fun
If you have time for fun, there's always a movie showing somewhere or a game of ultimate frisbee going on. You can get involved with Greek life, band, theatre, sports, spirit teams, or create your own groups for anything possible. Though Batesville is small, it offers enough to keep you happy.
Bang for the buck
The education is top-notch, no competition. The teachers all know what they're doing, and they prepare you for the real world. It may be a lot of money, but you'll be able to make more money in the future.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The campus is known for being haunted. Ghost hunters have come over from time to time to investigate various stories like the ghost children in the chapel or Fred in one of the girl's dorms.
Great for these types of students
Students who want to work hard for their best education possible would thrive at Lyon. Those who don't know what they want to do and want to explore and those who want to study abroad get good opportunities too. Lyon also has an excellent Pre-Med program with a 100% acceptance rate into medical school.
Clubs and Activities
There is literally something for everyone from drama and choir to sports to cooking to Dungeons and Dragons to bagpipes. If you're interested in it, Lyon can make it happen because the President is just an email away. It is easy to get involved.
Greek Life
The campus is home to four fraternities and three sororities that remain active in philanthropy, intramural activities, and student life. The Greek population is huge on Lyon campus and is easily the best way to get involved. Unlike big schools, Greek life is safe, free from hazing and the peer pressure felt at the state level.
Campus Safety
The only trouble I've had with safety is a car break-in. The campus has no history of violent attacks or anything of that nature. If there is, it is usually quickly resolved and dealt with.

Joshua from Bentonville, AR

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lyon College is for students who want to take a different and unique approach to the college experience. The smaller setting allows students to have opportunities that they wouldn't find at a larger university. If you want to have a fulfilling and worthwhile College experience, choose Lyon.
Tips for prospective students
Apply as EARLY AS POSSIBLE. This will allow you to get a speedy admission decision. Also, ask about the Honor Scholarship that can give you a FULL RIDE.
Academic Rigor
Lyon College offers a prestigious and challenging academic setting. Lyon does challenge you in many ways, but you are not alone when it comes to studies. While larger universities tend to have little student to professor contact, Lyon's professors are always willing to help the students with anything they are struggling with. As a student that wants to learn as much as possible, this was one of the top reasons I chose Lyon.
Dorm Life
I got to sleep in one of the nice new dorms they had during ACT Camp, and I was very impressed. Of course, there are the older dorms, but they are not bad. I really like how the dorms are set up, and felt right at home.
Food and Dining
Food selection is average to good. I am one of those guys who will eat whatever you put on my plate, but maybe a few more options would be nice. Of course, the bakery was amazing!!! I know where I will be going each day ;)
What to do for fun
Even though Lyon is set in a small town, the campus seems to have a lot of events going on to keep the students entertained. Lyon has a Scottish heritage which means you will hear a lot of bag pipes! I personally love this kind of stuff. The town itself has what you would expect: movie theater, bowling and alternative places to eat.
Bang for the buck
Despite the cost, Lyon is going to give you one of the best college experiences compared to other schools at the same price. The academic prestige, culture and preparation for life after college are all so great that the cost is worth it. I promise you, DO NOT LET THE COST KEEP YOU AWAY. This school is way to good to ignore if you have it on your college lists.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Scottish Heritage. Did I mention bag pipes ;)
Great for these types of students
Anyone looking for a unique and fulfilling college experience that will prepare you for life.
Clubs and Activities
Personally, I plan on playing in the band and maybe joining the baseball team, but there is also many other sports for both males and females on campus. The football program got going again a few years ago, and they are only getting better.
Campus Safety
Very safe campus and town. They seem to make your safety a top priority at Lyon. Never felt threatened or uneasy while walking it at night.

John from Allen, TX

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The campus is gorgeous if you love greenery and the outdoors. The science building is great - circulated air every 25 minutes and industry standard equipment. The students and professors are driven and realistic: they wont drag you along but they wont let you drown either.
Tips for prospective students
APPLY FOR THE HONORS COLLEGE IF YOU HAVE THE SCORES. At the time of writing, the score you need to apply is a 28 ACT (1310-1340 SAT but I'm unsure if it's accepted)

If you're accepted, you get FULL TUITION, housing in the nicest dorm (it's practically a hotel!), get to take a few core courses with only honors students, research opportunities, a free summer study abroad trip, and the honors college takes a big trip sophomore year to a city you choose together! There's no doubt in my mind that once I finish college I'll have a resume competitive for top tier grad schools.
Academic Rigor
Your professors will love you if you attend the office hours, but they'll hate if you show up unprepared. Never say "I don't get X" instead show up and say "I've worked through the problem sets, here are the questions I've had trouble with, and here's what I understand about the concepts in those questions"

Go to the SI sessions, whether you think you need it or not.

Do not ignore studying for the first few weeks or you will get in a rut you can't get out of. Don't spend your B's/C's freshman year.
Dorm Life
I only know the honors college, but Whiteside is incredibly nice. The restrooms are cleaned by maintenance, and there's one for every 4 students. The room's are a bit bigger than the standard dorm, and they come with a standing closet, dresser, desk, bed, and a vanity to share. The desk's have power plugs and USB charging ports on them, a fabric picture pin board, and 2 integrated upper book shelves. The dressers have one drawer which is able to be locked by a combination lock you provide, but other than that they're standard. Same with the wardrobes. The vanity is higher than the desks, unmovable, near outlets, and have a nice granite top. The bed's are also standard, and I believe you can loft them (they're pretty tall for storage regardless though)

I super recommend talking with your roommate ahead of time and picking a layout and color scheme just to make it more homey. Whiteside uses a cyan blue/lime green style poppy scheme for reference, but the dorms are pretty plain color wise.
Food and Dining
Food is alright, Brenda's sweets are amazing and the common's bistro has some good food and some great frappe's. However, in my opinion the people here complaining were coddled by their parent's food. It's perfectly find food.
Bang for the buck
Note - if you're paying full price I would probably place this school at around 2/3 stars.

I, personally, am paying almost nothing for this school because I received the Brown Scholarship. However, it's very common to receive full tuition, and literally everyone has at least some sort of scholarship on campus. Because Room & Board is so competitive priced, I personally believe that Lyon is definitely one of the best bangs for your buck. You get a full, personal college experience, with dedicated staff and opportunities you would never find at a big 4 year university. (For example, one of my professors has already suggested the possibility of me doing research with him as early as sophomore year)
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There is a cliff side near campus where you're facing away from all the light pollution and the stars look absolutely gorgeous. Also, the terrace outside of the Lyon building 2nd floor business library is a stellar place to have lunch or study outside in the quiet.
Great for these types of students
Ambitious Nerds
Clubs and Activities
As far as I can tell they offer every club you would want.
Campus Safety
The campus is tiny, and because of this you can call campus safety anytime & anywhere on campus if you need a ride back to your dorm because you feel unsafe. All the buildings require ID to enter as well.

Sean from Watauga, TX

a past student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This college is a small close-knit community that eventually becomes your family. The people and professors have a genuine care and interest in you well-being. You will get the full college experience here and the lasting relationships for the career world.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to attend on of the Honors Days. At these gatherings you have the opportunity to meet people that will be going to college along side of you, plus you will get a scholarship of some sort.

Get to know your adviser. The advisers want to be there to help you, so it's best that you stay in touch with them and keep them up-to-date on how your college experience is going.
Academic Rigor
The academics here are not easy, but you will definitely leave the college with a diverse and knowledgeable background. The teachers demand a lot from their students but that is because they know the student that attend the college are all among the top students in the nation. Most all of the students that attend the college were ranked within the top 10% of their graduating class.
Dorm Life
The dorms are probably some of the best times you can have as a student. Your resident assistant works with you and your floor to help build a community in which you can run down the hall and hangout with anyone on your floor.
Food and Dining
The new Edwards Commons Student Center is very nice and the newest building on campus. The food is sub-par but sodexo is constantly taking comment cards to figure out how to improve.
What to do for fun
The LEAP program is by far one of the coolest program additions to the college. It is an outdoor and adventure program. This program takes students on trips to go rock climbing, canoeing/kayaking, mountain biking, ice climbing, camping, and hiking. Other than going on extreme outdoor adventures you can also hang out in the student center in the bottom of Ed's playing pool or video games on one of the six flat-screen televisions. On the weekends the apartment row usually has parties going on which are really fun for nightlife because you know just about everyone there.
Bang for the buck
By far one of the best college values you can get. Well rounded social and academic campus, plus with the Nichols Program you have an opportunity to travel abroad for very little out of pocket expense.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The campus has the Fall and Spring Chapel Walk which is when the fraternities receive new pledges. Many people come out and celebrate with the groups
Great for these types of students
People who want to be close with their professors, fellow students, and be involved in campus life.
Clubs and Activities
Their are all kinds of clubs and if there isn't one that you think would be a good addition it's easy to create. They also have an eighteen-hole disc golf course, a running trail around a small pond/lake, an indoor swimming pool, and gym.
Greek Life
A fair amount of the student body is involved in fraternities or sports teams. There are
4 Fraternities:
Kappa Sigma, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Zeta Beta Tau, and Alpha Psi Epsilon.
3 Sororities:
Phi Mu, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omicron
Campus Safety
Campus Safety is mostly there to assist the student and keep out unwanted guest. If you need into a study room call campus safety and usually they will allow you in. If you are studying and they start closing up the building they will not kick you out they just ask that you please close the door when you leave.

Shauna from Strawberry, AR

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
Lyon college has a 15 to 1 student to professor rate and the professors are extremely dedicated to helping the students in any way possible. Lyon offers summer classes and a variety of possible majors. The staff keeps you updated and works with you on any problems, questions, or concerns you may have about attending this school.
Will enjoy being here
I greatly enjoy attending Lyon college. The campus is beautiful, offers a variety of opportunities to socialize with other students, and provides an abundance educational benefits. The people are very helpful and it is extremely easy to make friends that you can depend on. I feel comfortable on the campus. I know that if I accidentally leave something valuable somewhere it will either still be there when I go back or it is turned in somewhere safe.
Bang for the buck
Lyon offers many scholarship and grant opportunities to prospective students. There is a very high rate of Lyon graduates getting placed in jobs from their degree bracket within one year of graduating. The professors work WITH the students and want nothing more than their success.
Tips for prospective students
Attend Honors Day and fill out any forms you receive on your mylyon account quickly. This will allow you many scholarship opportunities and help with a smooth application process. When it comes to your classes and class work a lot of assignments are posted online. DO THEM. They are there for you to get done with plenty of time to do so. They are easy to complete and they help out a lot on exams. A lot of classes, the assignments are up long enough you can get them all done in advance and forget about them.
Great for these types of students
Anyone can attend lyon. There are students attending Lyon from all across the US as well as foreign exchange students. Lyon also offers the ability to study abroad for those interested.