finding the right instructor

[Big_Red]

Well this evening I went and met with the owner of hart city scuba in elkhart IN. I must say that a big thanks goes out to spectrum on the boards for giving Me a link on another blog for a list of great questions I should ask. The owner greg also the head instructor took about a good hour to a hour and a half with Me answering any and all questions I had. He was very knowlegable about everything and did not sugar coat anything. Also being a bigger guy is not a problem he works with a few diffrent companys that will make anything I need. Thanks to spectrum and others ont he boards I was able to really expand My understand and really educate myself about the world and sport of scuba. Being a new and not having a class or a dive under My belt has made Me start to read alot. I picked up the magazine "dive training" and I must say I have learned alot just from reading, I would highly recommend it to people who are in the same boat as Me. Thanks again and I will talk to you all soon I am sure.

Red

 

[elmbruker]

RED,

New to diving myself, you'll find a wealth of information on this subject here. From my experience, research the shop for a schedule and flexibility of their classes and for the certification dives they offer that fit your schedule. You'll find most to be very accommodating. Research the instructors, there will likely be more than one person at the shop teaching. Remember, your only going to get out of it what YOU put in to it. I have been fortunate enough to have what I consider exceptional teaching thusfar...albeit, sometimes through my own effort. One thing I can suggest is...showing a honest willingness to learn the course material, instead of just trying to get your certification. you will enjoy diving more, be more comfortable in the water, and be a better diver. After all, YOU are your best buddy team.

By the way, the LDS I did my OW with refuses to teach weekend classes, thats why I chose them. I had six full weeks to relax and enjoy learning my new Hobie. Had time to find out I liked it, so took/taking some specialties along the way..PPB,UN,EAN,AOW,EFR, got a package deal. Mind you, that many friends of mine have done the weekend course, which none of them had bad things to say about it. Fit into their schedule, so it worked for them.

Am, I a better diver, NO, not very good at all, But the important thing is that this is what I felt was a good balanced package for me to be comfortable with my skills in the water...a continued education approach.

Are, they better divers than I, NO, not very good at all, but they have appropriate knowledge of the risks of diving where I feel comfortable with anyone of them to buddy up with me, we share experience an continue an educational approach to diving. So what ever works for you.

Sorry so long, but whatever works for you is the best approach, it a recreational sport that is meant to be enjoyed, and to be able to enjoy it you have to be comfortable with your ability. Ultimately, YOU are responsible for your own safety and that starts with good instruction. Whatever your path might be!

Enjoy yourself and Dive Safe

 

[spectrum]

Make us proud, we expect a full report.
Oh and don't forget Walter, he did most of the work.

Have fun.

Pete

 

[Scuba Jerm]

sounds like you found the right instructor. It's always good to get someone who is flexible enough to take personal time with you and is straight to the point. I'm sure you'll love diving! Take Care,

Scuba Jerm

 

[SCUBAITEACH]

Welcome to diving , sounds like you found your home ...Have fun!