Bubbletrubble
Contributor
I don't know which shops you've been visiting. Sports Chalet and Ocean Enterprises are kind of known for having rather large classes. In my opinion, there are very good instructors associated with each entity.Any suggestions?
Interview the instructor before signing up for his/her class. You've probably been talking to shop employees who don't function as instructors. Most of the instructors I know care about their students, are trustworthy, and exude an enthusiasm for the sport.
FWIW, the vast majority of people who sign up for a basic OW class eventually get scuba certified. If that makes the process a "diploma mill," I suppose it is what it is. Most shops will make an extra effort to give recently certified students opportunities to stay active in the sport. After all, this leads to more scuba purchases down the road. All of the shops in the San Diego area have a scuba club associated with them. The clubs plan dive vacations as well as local dive outings. You also have the option of joining "independent" dive clubs (not affiliated with any shop). One example is the MeetUp.com group: Power Scuba. Consider signing up for the email list-serv at Divebums.com. Not only will you get daily local dive reports but you can also find local dive buddies that way.
If you're looking for "that personal touch," you might be happier with a private scuba lesson. FYI, private lessons will cost a great deal more than group lessons.