Alumni Spotlight: Andy Masters

Over the past 110 years, more than 200,000 individuals have graduated from Webster University around the world.

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Meet Andy Masters, who earned an MA in HR Development in 1998 and an MA in Marketing in 2001 from Webster. He currently works for Masters Performance Improvement, Inc.

What enticed you to choose Webster University for your degree?

I was enticed by pursuing a high-quality, high-reputation education in St. Louis that was also flexible with my career work schedule. Once enrolled, I immediately valued the combination of "academia" with "real-world" challenges/solutions that businesses face each day. This was due to the majority of faculty who had served in actual positions in which they taught, while providing an emphasis in learning on practical, "real-world" applications with each lesson.

What stood out about your studies at Webster?

At the graduate level, I certainly appreciated that personal attention and even relationships that were built with faculty members over time. Faculty were always open and willing to discuss not only the classroom assignments further, but also current events – or even applications for a current challenge we might be having in our careers. My favorite (though challenging) project was creating a plan to manufacture and market hockey sticks in the Czech Republic!

How did your Webster degree help advance you in your career?

I thank myself every day for pursuing and completing the challenge of earning two Master of Art degrees at Webster University. Unlike many graduates who veer into unrelated careers after graduation, I still "use" my knowledge in both areas of expertise every day of my career!

What is your favorite part of your job?

I've been so fortunate to work with organizations in 47 states and several countries and have the incredible ability to see the country and meet so many amazing people from all walks of life.

What is something valuable you have learned during your career?

I have such incredible respect for all entrepreneurs, as most don't fully understand the "behind the scenes" challenges that we face on a daily basis and the amount of dedication it takes to survive and grow a business.

What advice would you give to others who are considering Webster University for their degree? 

Don't wait! Take the leap and stick to it! You will thank yourself the rest of your life.

What is your favorite spot on your Webster campus? Favorite spot around the University? 

The row of delis and "quick" restaurants I would have to zip to between work and class at night!

What has your life journey looked like?

I was born and raised in St. Louis, and I currently live with my wife and two children in Orlando, Florida. Because of the nature of my career, my business can be based anywhere that I can plug a laptop into. We love Orlando, and it's also the No. 2 convention city in the country, though I still present many programs in the St. Louis area!

What was your first job, and what do you remember most about it?

At age 16, I worked at Dairy Queen in Chesterfield, Missouri. Interestingly, I still share a story with audiences about my life-changing experience I learned there about the true meaning of "the spirit of service.”

How do you spend your free time?

I absolutely love spending as much time as possible with my family exploring the state of Florida and cheering my kids on in their sports and activities!