Health Programs Built to Inspire

St. Petersburg College continues to inspire students who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others. They often choose SPC for its affordable tuition, flexible schedules, small class sizes and the lasting influence its degrees have on their personal and professional lives.

Here are two of their stories.

Associate in Science Degree in Nursing (RN) — LPN Transitional Program

Darryl Benjamin will tell you the decision to become a nurse was not entirely his.

Nursing student Darryl Benjamin

“I feel like it chose me,” said Benjamin, whose mother has been a nurse all his life. “With my personality, I love taking care of and being there for people. Especially helping them get better so they can go home. That’s what we’re here for.”

The incoming president of SPC’s Student Nurse Association, Benjamin has worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for eight years. He graduates this year with his Associate in Science Degree in Nursing (RN) through the LPN Transitional Program that awards students credit for their experience and credentials.

"Having an LPN background I feel has made me more successful in the program,” said Benjamin, who began his health care career at age 22 as a Certified Nursing Assistant. “I have practical knowledge of nursing, as opposed to students in the traditional program.”

A big proponent of getting involved in all things SPC, Benjamin, 35, thrives on the camaraderie and teamwork he builds in his classes in the College of Nursing and his career.

“Most of us in the nursing classes are older and we really help each other out,” said Benjamin, who works at Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital in St. Petersburg. “Seeing my peers balance work, life and school is really inspiring.”

Benjamin applauds SPC for offering options like evening and weekend classes so that working students can earn their nursing degree.

“The schedules are a real advantage, and so is the College’s reputation,” Benjamin said. “Most people, when they see your resume, are impressed because they know what a vigorous program SPC offers.”

A.S. in Business Administration

Business administration alum Zoilita Andrade

When it came time for Zoilita Andrade to earn her business degree, she had no trouble deciding where to go.

“I chose SPC for its outstanding reputation for providing high-quality education within a supportive environment,” said Andrade, who earned her A.S. in Business Administration with a specialization in financial services from SPC in December 2024. “The College offered flexible learning options, allowing me to successfully balance my academic, work and personal responsibilities. My studies at SPC equipped me with the essential knowledge and skills I needed to build a successful career in business. The peer mentoring program, in particular, was invaluable in fostering both my academic and personal growth.”

A native of Peru, Andrade came to the United States nine years ago. Even as a child, she was interested in the economy and has been deeply passionate about finance and committed to helping others ever since.

While working toward her degree, Andrade earned her license to work as a health insurance agent. She has since earned insurance licenses to work as a Personal Lines Property and Casualty Insurance Agent and Insurance Customer Representative.

She now works at Univista Life & Health LLC, where she hopes she can make a difference for people who may be overwhelmed by health insurance choices.

“I’m now working in a field I am passionate about, and I am excited to continue growing and contributing to the industry,” Andrade said. “I’m especially focused on applying my skills in financial services to empower individuals in making informed decisions. My experience has further strengthened my desire to work in a role where I can leverage my expertise to positively impact others’ lives.”