A career-changing leap of faith.

Latvian native Jelena Adahovska joined the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews, Scotland, in 2010 as Chef de Rang at the Sands restaurant. Her university background in teaching made her an excellent coach and mentor to her colleagues, and her career took off. In no time at all she was promoted to supervisor and then an assistant manager.

“The Old Course Hotel is so iconic and unique, with such high standards of service,” said Jelena. “They invest not only in their guests but in their associates.”

Her drive and skills led to an opportunity to participate in Kohler Hospitality’s Global Exchange Program, visiting the United States and working with colleagues from The American Club® in Kohler, Wisconsin.

But despite her success, Jelena didn’t feel fulfilled and wasn’t following her true passion. Four years into her career, she took a leap of faith and began attending school to become a spa therapist.

That leap landed both Jelena and Kohler in an even better place. In 2017 she began working one day each week at Kohler Waters Spa in St Andrews. By the end of that year, she was working at the spa full-time.

“Jelena is a passionate ambassador of the hotel. I’m thrilled that we could accommodate and support her in this complete change in career direction,” said Nicola Ramzan, Senior HR Generalist – Destination St Andrews.

In true Jelena character, she is excelling in her newly chosen field. Since joining Kohler Waters Spa, she has become one of the top and most requested therapists.

“I am so enthusiastic about my work and enjoy helping people enhance their wellbeing,” she explained.“ To see guests returning to me and recommending my work is so fulfilling.”