April 14, 2026
Priviledge Mudzembwe got involved on campus, finding her voice and her community.
When Priviledge Mudzembwe first arrived at JCCC, she remembers feeling overwhelmed.
Adjusting to college life can be challenging, but it was doubly so for Priviledge. She had arrived all the way from Zimbabwe and taken the plunge into a new country and educational environment at the same time.
At first, Priviledge said, she was quiet, observing more than she spoke. She thought JCCC’s small class sizes would help her adjust and grow in her new setting.
“What I didn’t expect,” she said, “was how deeply it would transform me.”
JCCC helps you find your home
Priviledge was immediately welcomed by International & Immigrant Student Services (IISS), JCCC’s dedicated team for advising and guiding international and immigrant students.
“The International Office became my first home on campus,” she said. “They supported me, checked in on me, and reminded me that I belonged here.”
Priviledge’s sense of home expanded when she began to get involved on campus, joining the International Club and the African and Caribbean Club.
“The African and Caribbean Club grounded me in a way I didn’t even realize I needed,” she said. “Being surrounded by my brothers and sisters from Africa brought me comfort in a space that once felt overwhelming. That community made my transition both manageable and meaningful.”
With a strong network of support surrounding her, Priviledge felt ready to embrace her voice and become a leader.
JCCC provides opportunities for leadership and growth
During her time as a Cavalier, Priviledge has built an impressive resume.
She serves as a Student Life Ambassador, and is involved with organizations like Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, the Sustainability Club, the Cavaliers Leadership Program, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and Student Senate, where she serves as treasurer.
“I made friendships that turned into family, and I found mentors and advisors who believed in me,” said Priviledge.
"I didn’t just find an education. I found my voice." - Priviledge M.
The biggest impact began when she joined the Honors Program, an opportunity for academically motivated students to pursue stimulating coursework and co-curricular experiences.
“It pushed me beyond the classroom, challenging me to think critically, engage deeply with my studies, and take ownership of my academic growth,” she said.
Through her involvement and academic work, Priviledge received competitive scholarships and was invited to attend conferences across the country and present her research.
She attended an international conference for chemistry students hosted by the American Chemical Society. There, she had the opportunity to present her research project about discovering potential new antibiotics from bacteria found in soil.
Priviledge also attended the Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst conference, where she was recognized for several national awards and scholarships, including the 2026 Hites Transfer Scholarship and the 2026 New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar, and named a member of the 2026 All-USA Academic Team.
Each achievement for Priviledge felt like an affirmation.
“It told me: you belong here. Your story matters,” she said.
As her list of accomplishments grew, so did her confidence in herself and her abilities.
“I am no longer the shy student who arrived unsure and unseen,” said Priviledge. “I am a leader. And I am just getting started.”
From JCCC Cavalier to international medical doctor
The next steps of Priviledge’s educational journey are beginning to take shape. She plans to transfer to a four-year university and continue to medical school.
“I aspire to become a doctor, specializing in gastroenterology,” she said.” It’s a passion rooted in personal experience, watching my mother navigate health challenges and wanting to understand, to help, and to heal.”
Priviledge also wants to use her advocacy skills and return to her home of Zimbabwe.
“I want to be part of rebuilding and strengthening healthcare systems,” she said. “I hope to one day work with the Ministry of Health, not just as a doctor, but as someone who understands the deeper needs of the people.”
Start here, go anywhere!
Priviledge understands that many students can feel out of place or unseen when they first arrive. Her advice? Your beginning does not define your ending.
“You may start quietly,” she said. “But if you are willing to step forward, to seek community, to say yes to growth, your story can become something powerful.”
For Priviledge, her story became her calling.
Find your voice—and more—when you join the JCCC Cavalier community. Apply today!