I am glad you didn't speak up...yet... because you might have spoken out of anger rather than putting the person straight with well phrased wording...which you can do now..or next time.

Perhaps, from a wider view, he is thinking you are privileged in that you are in college... because (as you know) not everyone gets to go there... there are plenty of places in the world where no matter how smart we are or how hard we work...there just isn't any college available?

I really do think you need to give this person your perspective on his use of the term "privilege"...it sounds like he's reevaluating his place in society and it would be a good lesson for him?

I admire you for your struggles and how you have overcome them. I'm sorry the road has been so rough for you. TC