In April, students from the Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management (HRTM) program traveled with Ajai Ammachathram, associate professor and director of the HRTM program, to provide hospitality services at the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. This marked the 11th time Husker students have participated in the prestigious event. Juniors Sydney Redden and Lyv Williams reflect on their experiences, sharing insights about the roles they served, their favorite behind-the-scenes moments, and how this experience will impact their future careers.
What part of the tournament did you serve? What was your typical day while working?
Sydney: I had the incredible opportunity to work in the Carolina Cherry Hospitality Cabin (right off of hole 10) at Augusta National, alongside seven other student servers from universities across the South. Our typical day started early, and ran long, with lots of movement between prepping, serving, and ensuring every guest had an exceptional experience. We averaged around 120 to130 patrons each day, serving breakfast, lunch, and a late-afternoon snack. Honestly, if it were up to me, I’d skip lunch and wait for snack because we were serving lobster, sushi, shrimp, crawfish, and other incredible “snacks” that felt more like gourmet feasts. The environment was fast-paced but highly organized, and we worked alongside top professionals in culinary and club management.
Lyv: I served in the same hospitality cabin as last year and I am so thankful I got to go back. Each cabin is run like its own restaurant; we have three meal periods with a buffet, à la carte, and a full-service bar. My job is to greet the guests and get them everything they need, including food, beverages, and an exceptional hospitality experience. The hours were long, but so worth it to make the patron experience unforgettable.
How did this event compare to other events you have helped with?
Sydney: The Masters is in a league of its own. I’ve helped coordinate weddings and organize vendor markets through a boutique I worked with for over three years, but nothing compares to the level of detail, tradition, and excellence at Augusta. I even met patrons and professionals who have worked at events like the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby, and they all said the same thing—Augusta National is unmatched.
Lyv: The Masters is like nothing I have ever done before. It is at a level of utmost luxury that I will probably never find in any of the events in my future career. The attention to detail, southern hospitality, and unbeatable traditions are unmatched.
What are some of the biggest takeaways you gained to help you as you move forward in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry?
Sydney: One of the biggest takeaways for me was the importance of simply putting yourself out there with a smile. Hospitality is truly the business of happiness, and this experience reinforced my desire to cultivate meaningful, lasting memories for others. I learned the power of connection just by being kind and professional can open doors. Several patrons followed up with internship opportunities, and even if they’re not the exact path I want to take, they’re now part of my network. I also witnessed the value of leadership. Our supervisor was amazing and genuinely invested in helping us grow as young professionals.
Lyv: My biggest takeaway is that connections are the key to success in the hospitality industry. I have made lifelong friends with the team in my cabin, and I have already made plans to visit them this year. Not only do I have those friendships, but I also have professional connections with the managers and even patrons who reach out and ask questions about what I do.
What was your favorite part of the whole experience? Did you have a favorite behind-the-scenes moment?
Sydney: There’s so much to choose from, but one unforgettable behind-the-scenes moment was witnessing the setup for the Champions Dinner. The elegance of the décor, the soft music, and the impeccable attire of the guests was absolutely mesmerizing. Another favorite part of mine was being able to walk the course as a patron. Without phones allowed, you truly escape the outside world and get lost in the beauty and charm of Augusta National. You almost forget you're in Georgia. It feels like a dream!
Lyv: My favorite part of the experience for both years that I have worked the Masters is standing on the porch of the cabin and hearing the crowd roar as the final putt goes in. There are no words to describe how unforgettable that memory is.
What advice would you give to other HRTM students considering participating in this event?
Sydney: Do it! No hesitation. Yes, it’s long hours and living in a hotel for nearly two weeks, but it’s the experience of a lifetime. So many people dream of just attending the Masters, and we get to be part of what makes it so special. You never know who you’ll meet or where those connections might lead. And if you’re from Nebraska or the Midwest, the hard work and long days are no big deal. You’re built for it! Augusta teaches you that hospitality isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. The experience is unforgettable.
Lyv: My advice to other HRTM students is to not give up! This experience is so worth it, so keep applying and doing your best. Ask for help from your professors, professionals in the hospitality industry, and students who have worked the Masters. We are willing to help you so you can have this fantastic experience as well.
Lyv, what was it like returning to the Masters Tournament for a second year— did going back give you a new perspective on the tournament or the industry?
Lyv: I was so excited to go back and see my team again, especially since we go to schools across the country and had not seen each other since the previous year. I definitely felt so much more prepared and comfortable with the process this time around. I felt confident in helping others and being the one to reach out to the new members and make them feel at home.
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