Goizueta alumni hold more than a coveted degree from Emory; they also boast a wealth of life experiences and business know-how. In this ongoing series, EmoryBusiness.com will share their sage advice, which you can add to your own toolkit.
Tom Amster 93MBA
Senior Managing Director, Head of U.S. Financial Sponsors
Macquarie Capital
Who inspires you and why?
I’m involved with a camp in Southern California called The Painted Turtle (thepaintedturtle.org). It’s a camp for children with serious illnesses. Two great things happen there: the children get to go to camp for the first time ever, and, because they attend sessions based on their medical conditions, they enjoy a sense of community and commonality that is impossible to replicate. The positive, compassionate attitudes of the children, volunteers and full-time staff that care for them are truly inspiring.
What’s on your music playlist?
It’s an eclectic mix of new and old. From Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Maroon 5, all the way back to classic Springsteen and U2.
What’s the best career advice you’ve received?
Don’t over-plan/overthink every career move. What seems like an incredibly important decision today will likely seem a lot less important in hindsight. Take chances when you can, and choose the most interesting opportunity that’s available to you.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
Cycling, hiking, running, golfing and reading.
Share the way you work through a complex problem (personal or professional).
I try to view the problem from as many different angles as possible. That means getting input from others. Always remember that getting help from others is not a sign of weakness; it’s a strength.
What is your best Goizueta or Emory memory?
Definitely the time I spent with friends, faculty and the administrative team — many of whom I’m still close with today. And I met my wife, Sheryl, while attending Goizueta. We’ve been married for 22 years.
What is your biggest challenge?
Managing my time. Time is the one thing you can’t create more of. I travel almost every week. You have to work hard to strike the right balance between family, work and self. They are all important.
You’ve created a named scholarship for MBA students. What’s your hope for the scholarship?
Emory provided me with some incredible personal, academic and career opportunities. This scholarship is my chance to help others access those same opportunities.
How do you define success?
Today, success is clearly defined by my children (Jakob 17, Alex 15 and Chelsea 7). Children are your only true legacy.
