A Strong Foundation Can Take You Unexpected Places
Sometimes, your career path can go in unexpected directions that don’t line up with the area you studied. But there are always lessons to learn from South University education: from building your critical thinking and problem-solving skills to realizing your own ability and resilience.Today, we’re highlighting two people who studied the health sciences but wound up working as entrepreneurs and creatives: Kimberly Weston and Rashida Costa. Each one is a proud South University graduate who has followed their passion to blaze their own professional path, while, at the same time, creating and nurturing community.
Allied Health Graduate and Entrepreneur, Kimberly Weston
Kimberly Weston earned her Associate of Science in Allied Health Science from South University, West Palm Beach in 2007. She says she chose the school for its flexible learning options, convenient location, and experienced teaching staff. “I was provided an excellent foundation to enter multiple professional arenas,” Kimberly recalls. “All the staff I encountered were genuinely invested in my growth.”After graduating, Kimberly began her professional journey as an executive healthcare recruiter. In this career, she was passionate about building relationships and connecting people. Kimberly remained in healthcare for a long time, but in 2021, her mother Camile retired, leaving Kimberly the chance to become the owner of Camile’s Flowers & Gifts. Kimberly accepted the role, stepped into full-time entrepreneurship, and hasn’t looked back since.
“Camile’s Flowers & Gifts is where I cultivate not only beautiful floral designs but also meaningful community experiences,” she says. The business has grown into a hub known for its signature “Sip & Arrange” events, which blend floral artistry, connection, and celebration.
Kimberly now also co-owns STC Voice, an IT and telecom firm in the area, and in 2026, is celebrating her first year of running Wild Rose Wine & Daiquiri Bar, a restaurant and event space. Beyond her businesses, Kimberly is committed to civic engagement and economic development. She serves on the Palm Beach County 1 Cent Surtax Oversight Committee and the Historic Northwest Business Alliance, contributing to initiatives that support local growth, infrastructure, and small businesses.
“I hope that my journey reflects resilience, creativity, and a passion for building spaces where people can gather, celebrate, and thrive,” Kimberly says. “I hope it serves as inspiration for our youth, and I reach them through a different type of leadership, my entrepreneurial spirit, and continued dedication to our community.”
Health Science Graduate Turned Playwright, Rashida Costa
Since earning her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from South University, West Palm Beach, in 2012, Rashida Costa has focused more on the arts than the sciences. Still, the program helped Rashida in other ways. “My experience at South University successfully prepared me for my career by instilling discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic,” she says. “The rigor of my program, along with the high expectations of the faculty, challenged me to stay focused, manage my time effectively, and consistently push myself to perform at a higher level.”
Beyond the academics, Rashida was also influenced by the community of people around her. “The support and professionalism of the staff contributed to a learning environment that felt collaborative and encouraging. That experience helped shape my work ethic and continues to influence how I approach my career in the arts,” she says.
Today, Rashida is a playwright, actress, artistic director, and author of motivational and children’s literature. She is the founder of Theatre and All Things Dramatics, where she creates meaningful artistic experiences and opportunities for telling stories that reflect culture, history, and resilience. “Throughout the years, I have remained deeply connected to theater, literature, and community engagement, using the arts as a platform to educate, inspire, and empower others,” she says. “My greatest fulfillment comes from the impact of my work.”
Rashida is the writer and producer of the stage play At All Cost, which explores the struggles Black veterans faced after World War II. The play has recently embarked on a national tour, reaching audiences across the country. To further raise awareness of veterans’ issues, Rashida donates a percentage of proceeds from select performances to veteran-focused causes. Rashida’s work has received extensive media coverage, and she was recently named a 2026 Arts Impact Awards Honoree by Lead with Your Art.
Advice for Your Future
For Rashida and Kimberly, they might not have known exactly where their education would lead, but both built important skills and walked away with increased confidence in their abilities.“At South University, I learned that growth often comes from pushing through difficult moments and remaining focused on long-term goals. My encouragement to students is to trust the process, stay open to learning, and not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone,” says Rashida. “Most importantly, believe in your ability to succeed and remember that your education is laying the foundation for the future you are working to create.”
As for Kimberly, her advice is simple. “You will never regret investing in yourself,” she says.
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Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2026.
Faculty credentials and experience may vary.
