Alumni Spotlight: Christopher Miller

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

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Meet Christopher Miller, who earned an MA in International Business in 2008 and currently works for ATB Technologies.

What enticed you to choose Webster for your degree?

I was living in Chicago at the time I applied. I had considered other programs both in the United States and abroad but ultimately chose Webster. I liked the small campus in the St. Louis area. It allowed me to work in Clayton while pursuing my degree.

What stood out about your studies at Webster?

I really enjoyed the master's program. I was able to take courses at different campuses around St. Louis, and I appreciated the real-world experiences (not just theory) the professors brought to the table. I was able to take electives in nonprofit management, which allowed me to expand business principles to my passions of supporting nonprofits. That has led me to take active leadership roles within nonprofit boards around St. Louis.

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

It really made me think about macro trends and pushed me to consider a career in technology. I was challenged to look for an industry that was expanding. As the mortgage crisis hit the U.S., I was able to see the role technology companies played in supporting businesses and was able to find a role with a firm that grew as the economy faced challenges. It was one of the best decisions I have made professionally.

What is your favorite part about your job?

I love working with leaders of organizations who are supporting their people while growing their companies. We all have day-to-day challenges, but the visionaries that are playing for something bigger are inspiring. I enjoy helping bring solutions via technology that helps support those visions and goals.

What is something valuable you have learned during your career?

I have learned about accessibility. I came to St. Louis as a transplant to this region. My career has taught me that this is a great community to live in and work in, regardless of where you are from. That doesn't mean there aren't challenges. I've been fortunate to meet and work alongside some great people. But the ability to reach out to any company, any leader, and ask for advice is unlike anything I have seen in other cities. St. Louis is extremely welcoming if you put in the effort to be involved. I just wish we could stop with the high school question – this is a turnoff to many who are not from here.

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

Do it! I was able to work full-time while working on my master's degree full-time. I found the workload to be fair, and the content and connections to be invaluable. I do wish I could have taken advantage of the global MBA though!

What has your life journey looked like?

I grew up in Momence, Illinois – a small river town about 40 miles south of Chicago. Currently, I reside in Chesterfield. I've lived in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Sao Paulo, Brazil. I have traveled to over 23 countries and though there is intention behind many of my decisions, I have allowed new adventures to guide me. We have one life – I want to experience the most I can during it.

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

I detasseled corn! I remember it was hot and boring, but it taught me hard work and the importance of starting your day early. It also taught me that I wanted to use my knowledge not my hands when choosing a career.

How do you spend your free time?

I travel with my family, coach youth soccer, and I am involved with various nonprofit boards around the region.