Mudiwa

Meet Mudiwa, who traveled nearly 8,000 miles from South Africa for his first semester as a general studies major at HCC. It was a turbulent trip for Mudiwa, who had to learn to talk and walk again, after a life-threatening fall at 13. Two months later, he had started high school, where he struggled to keep up with the rigorous pace.

“In December, I was in a coma, and by January, I was in high school,” said Mudiwa. “They said I could sit out for my first term, but I didn’t want to be behind.” 

He studied hard to earn a coveted spot in the top academic class. He also joined the junior council for the country’s private and public schools, giving back to his community through food drives and personal care item donations. 

“I woke up one morning thinking, I almost wasn’t here, I almost didn’t have this opportunity,” said Mudiwa. “It was that day that I decided to push myself mentally, physically, and spiritually to be the best version of myself.”

Look for Mudiwa on campus at his work-study site in the Wellness Center, the Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center where he has auditioned for a few productions, or in the computer science program next semester.  "I am so grateful for the faculty and staff at HCC," said Mudiwa. "They provided me with so much support and helped me navigate the process of how to apply for and get a scholarship. As an international student, I didn't think I would qualify for tuition assistance."

Wherever he lands, he has the drive to triumph over it.