Questions about Becoming a Professional Diver?

Is becoming a scuba diver one of those things that sat on your bucket list for years before you decided to take the leap and get certified? You may feel the same way about becoming a PADI pro now. Everyone asks themselves the same questions:

1. Can I handle the stress of a pro class?
2. Are my dive skills good enough to be a pro diver?
3. Am I ready to be responsible for other divers?
4. Can I afford to take the Divemaster or Instructor course?

1. Pro classes can be stressful, but the PADI Divemaster course (the first level of professional certification) is completed at your own pace. It gives you the time you need to tackle the skills and knowledge development at a pace you can handle while you still work your regular job or go to school. That way, by the time you are ready to tackle a PADI Instructor Development Course you've had plenty of time to prepare your skills.

2. Dive skill development is a top priority for every professional course. Practical exercises will dominate your course time, both in the pool and in open water. Current dive professionals will be there every step of the way to mentor you and help you practice your skills until you are comfortable demonstrating them to students.

3. Ultimately, you are the only one who can decide if you're ready to be responsible for newer divers. However, a good way to gauge your readiness is to evaluate how you felt once you completed your Rescue course. Did it feel good to accomplish the skills in the course, knowing that they will help you be a better buddy? If you haven't completed Rescue yet, that course is a great start because it gives you the tools to critically evaluate other divers and help them avoid potential problems (it's also really, really fun).

4. If you're concerned about the cost of the courses, you should come to Sea and Discover at Scuba Emporium on Wednesday, October 24 at 6:30pm. That night, not only will we have manufacturer representatives from both Aqualung and Sealife Cameras, we will also have Gary Joyce from PADI here to respond to any questions or concerns you have that didn't get addressed here. We'll also offer special, one-night-only deals on course packages for recreational and professional divers that will feature interest-free financing! These courses have never been more affordable, and the costs can be managed over a period of time instead of paying for everything up front.

Call us today to register; we'll make sure we have food for you!