Going Pro...need lots of advice!!!

[JiveMaster]

Hello Everyone

So...I just quit my corporate job because I would like to get back to traveling the world...and becoming an OWSI!!

I have been doing hours and hours and HOURS of research, talking to course directors ect but I really need some unbiased advice.

I would like to go from my current certifiaction (Open water for 7 yrs now) all the way up to an IDC. I would also like the opportunity to travel while I do it...and of course after I'm certified.

So, where should I do my IDC and how should I go about it??? :huh:

I am definitely on a tight budget.

I've been looking into Thailand (Koh Tao, Samui, Phuket, ect) and considering going to one of the PADI CDCs for ALL of my training. I would love to do my training where there is excellent diving, cheap living, and easy access to travel (which is why I've been considering Thailand). I would like the best dive training possible AND I don't want to go through a dive training "factory." VISAs are a whole other issue aswell....ahhh all of this is giving me a headache!!

I have also been thinking about jumping around for a few of my certifications until I go for the IDC (allowing me to travel more), not restricting me to a CDC.

Has anyone gone through their certifications in such a way??

Can anyone point me in the right direction or give me some advice??

Thank you very much in advance!!

 

[SparticleBrane]

After looking at your "logged dives" part of your profile I would suggest getting lots of experience. Several hundred dives at least, in many different locations and environments.

 

[marcienko]

After looking at your "logged dives" part of your profile I would suggest getting lots of experience. Several hundred dives at least, in many different locations and environments.

I was just about to say the same.

Good luck !!!

Marcin

 

[JiveMaster]

After looking at your "logged dives" part of your profile I would suggest getting lots of experience. Several hundred dives at least, in many different locations and environments.

That is definitely the plan...I'm looking for the best training and to have several hundred dives logged before I teach...the different environment/locations is a part of my question about where to get my certifications.

 

[Cheekymonkey]

Not sure of your actual experience lvl, whehter or not the 25-49 is a mistake if you've been diving for 7 years... but anyway. I reccomend doing your IDC and IE nearby your area so that you are getting relevant teaching experience

 

[JiveMaster]

Also, anyone who has gone along this path...did you find way to generate income along the way?? I save up money while I was working specifically for this, but I'm definitely planning to take my time with all of this so if anyone has any ideas as far as income along the way please share

 

[JiveMaster]

Not sure of your actual experience lvl, whehter or not the 25-49 is a mistake if you've been diving for 7 years... but anyway. I reccomend doing your IDC and IE nearby your area so that you are getting relevant teaching experience

I've been certified for 7 years but I didn't really get into my diving until this past summer...I still only have <50 dives logged...

 

[MaxBottomtime]

I suggest getting a job in a dive shop. You won't make much, but many shops are willing to pay for some or all of your training as long as you teach there.

 

[diabolical solicitor]

Also, anyone who has gone along this path...did you find way to generate income along the way?? I save up money while I was working specifically for this, but I'm definitely planning to take my time with all of this so if anyone has any ideas as far as income along the way please share

Best way to make a little money in the dive business is to start with a lot of money.

 

[Igodeep]

Best way to make a little money in the dive business is to start with a lot of money.

This is very true. You can have a great time as a scuba instructor, but I hope you don't think you are going to make a great amount of money. Most instructors teach scuba becuase they love it, not for the money. The average OW Instructor will quit within two years, becuase it is not what they thought and it is very hard to make anything more than a minimal income.

I would suggest you work your way up to Divemaster, then you can start going out and helping with classes. If you can get a job in a dive shop, you will get a perspective on what it will really be like before you sink thousands of dollars into IDC only to find out later this is not for you.