Lone Star College-Montgomery student’s journey leads to Ivy League school

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- At first, Cristian Vieyra wasn’t sure what higher education opportunities would be the right option for her, but after researching which schools offered challenging programs with academic and personal growth, she knew Lone Star College-Montgomery was the right choice for starting her academic journey.

“Lone Star College-Montgomery has been the best academic decision I have ever made,” said Vieyra. “It gave me the platform and resources I didn’t even know I needed to pursue my dreams.”

Vieyra was recently accepted into the prestigious Columbia University's School of General Studies where she will join 2,300 other non-traditional students working toward an Ivy League undergraduate degree after earning her LSC-Montgomery Associate of Liberal Arts degree.

During her tenure at LSC-Montgomery, Vieyra displayed a driven and collaborative approach while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Her list of accomplishments include making the President’s List, being a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and participating in the National Model United Nations conference.

“She demonstrates curiosity and commitment in her activities and interests which are diversified and complementary to her educational and career goals,” said Madeline Brogan, CPA, EA, MBA. “She knows how to study and pushes herself to excel while supporting other students.“

LSC-Montgomery provides a nationally recognized education with proven transfer success to top universities. In addition to Columbia University, students successfully transfer to Texas A&M University, the University of Houston and University of Texas at Austin.

“My professors encouraged me to serve my community and grow beyond academics,” said Vieyra. “The professors who organized and led the trips I participated in at Lone Star College-Montgomery further demonstrated the institution’s commitment to creating a safe, encouraging environment where students can reach their full potential.”

“I have rarely encountered a college student with the exceptional work ethic demonstrated by Ms. Vieyra,” said Dr. Juan Lebron, LSC-Montgomery vice president, Student Success. “Her consistent willingness to lead through a servant leadership approach truly sets her apart.”

As member of the LSC-Montgomery Honors College, Vieyra took advantage of courses that engaged and challenged her inside and outside the classroom with small classes and close interaction with dedicated faculty.

“Absolutely do it,” said Vieyra when asked what she would say to someone considering LSC-Montgomery. “It was one of the smartest decisions I’ve made. This is a community that truly invests in you and will do everything it can to help you reach your highest potential.”

Fall 2026 registration is underway, learn more by visiting LoneStar.edu/Register.