Behind the Scenes at the Masters: A Hospitality Student’s Perspective
If you had told me a year ago that I’d be spending spring surrounded by golf legends, serving gourmet food, and sipping my coffee while watching the sunrise over Augusta National, I would’ve laughed. But that’s exactly what happened—and it was everything I didn’t know I needed.
As a hospitality student, I’m always chasing opportunities to learn, serve, and experience new events. So, when I got the chance to work the Masters Tournament at Berkman’s Place—THE premier hospitality space at Augusta—I didn’t hesitate. I said yes before I could even fully wrap my head around what I was stepping into. Spoiler alert: it ended up being one of the best experiences of my life.
Berkman’s Place is basically the crème de la crème of Masters hospitality. I was lucky enough to be placed at Augusta’s, one of the five restaurants inside Berkman’s, working as a server alongside some amazing people. From the crisp burgundy uniforms to the elegant atmosphere, everything about it felt top-tier. Honestly, just walking into that building every morning made you stand a little taller. The food was unreal. Every dish that came out of the kitchen looked like something from a Michelin-starred magazine spread. I’m talking oysters, redfish, delicate desserts, and signature cocktails that looked too pretty to drink (but you know people did). When we weren’t carrying trays or folding napkins into perfect shapes, we were geeking out over the artistry of it all. And yes, I did get to try a few bites here and there—perks of being part of the magic!
Working the Masters meant long days, early mornings, and lots of hustle—but it also meant breaks on the course. And during those breaks, you’d better believe I was out there soaking up every second. Watching Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler play from just a few feet away was absolutely surreal. It’s not every day you take your lunch break under a Georgia pine while two of golf’s biggest legends walk by like it’s no big deal. And don’t even get me started on the sunrises. I saw several over the ten days I was there, since we were up so early for prep—and each one took my breath away. The way the golden light spilled across the course in the quiet of the morning... it felt like you were witnessing something sacred before the crowds poured in. Peaceful, humbling, and kind of magical. (My favorite place to watch the sunrise was hole 12!)
Being chosen to work the Masters is a big honor, and I was proud to be one of 190+ Auburn students selected. We were everywhere—from serving tables to greeting guests, managing logistics, and even working in the back-of-house kitchen. Auburn truly showed up and showed out. But it wasn’t just us—students from all over the South came together for this. I met new friends from UGA, Alabama, USC, FSU, and more. It felt like a Southern hospitality convention wrapped up in one of the most iconic sporting events in the world. We swapped stories, compared uniforms, shared snacks, and bonded over aching feet and unforgettable moments.
Besides the jaw-dropping experiences and celebrity sightings (or near-sightings...), this tournament reminded me exactly why I chose hospitality. It’s about people. It’s about creating something special, paying attention to the details, and finding joy in service—even when your legs are sore and your hair is frizzing from the Georgia humidity.
I also learned that no matter how big or exclusive the event, it’s the little moments that stay with you. Like laughing with coworkers in the breakroom, getting your first guest compliment, or stepping out into the fresh air to catch a quick glimpse of a golf swing that’ll be replayed on SportsCenter that night. Working the Masters was more than just a bullet point on my resume. It was a moment. A memory. A confidence boost. It reminded me how far I’ve come as a student and how far I can go in this industry. I left with lots of new friends all over the country, amazing memories, and a heart full of gratitude. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.
Until next time, Augusta. Thanks for the magic, the moments, and the masterclass in southern hospitality.
Be Well, Auburn.
Born and raised in Cullman, AL, Ella Kate is majoring in Event Management with a minor in Business. Coming from a house divided, between Bama fans and Georgia fans, it was quite a shock when she chose Auburn. But her parents proudly supported her as she fell in love with the Hospitality program and the people of Auburn.
Now a sophomore, Ella Kate is heavily involved in Greek life, campus life, and photography all over Auburn’s campus. Dreaming of becoming an event planner for concerts and weddings. She has a history of helping with popular events such as Auburn Rodeo, Rock the South, and weddings around the Auburn area!
When she is not involved with extracurriculars, working events, or at school, you can find her at Botanic with her friends chatting it up with a chai latte and a chocolate croissant, thrifting, or laying out in the sun at The Rec’s pool. Her favorite things include her black Labrador retriever, Shadow, binge-watching the full 7 seasons of Gilmore Girls, and going to Red Barn to have picnics with her friends.
