The Chairman
Chairman of the Board
I think it's important to mix who you learn from. Use different agencies and different instructors when possible. Get as many perspectives as you can.
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I second this entirely. Getting a different view is always useful. And we are not all made equal, everyone should evolve according to his nature and inclinations.I think it's important to mix who you learn from. Use different agencies and different instructors when possible. Get as many perspectives as you can.
Curious why you say this, and what you actually/really mean.Keep in mind that all of these certification agencies, whether they be NAUI, PADI, SSI, ad nauseum, are little more than clubs for hobbyists; and that their collective influence hold as much "official" sway, as does the volume of water, in a styrofoam cup at 1000 meters . . .
Keep in mind that all of these certification agencies, whether they be NAUI, PADI, SSI, ad nauseum, are little more than clubs for hobbyists; and that their collective influence hold as much "official" sway, as does the volume of water, in a styrofoam cup at 1000 meters . . .
Curious why you say this, and what you actually/really mean.
Influence on whom/what?
Obviously, you hold this as a very strong opinion, just wondering what you mean.
You really do seem confused by what a club is. And totally ignore post #14 because I suppose it is inconvenient to your position.Just a snarky comment, a shot across the bow, on the brand or self-important certification loyalists, who see themselves as some sort of official licensing organization, when, in actuality, are simply clubs. The epitome, for me, of that attitude, was a dude at DEMA, years ago, with an enormous PADI tattoo on his arm.
On a boat, some time ago, someone's girlfriend, a non-diver, asked which "license" was the best. When I mentioned that they were all clubs, the boyfriend and a crew member almost stroked out, in protest, and didn't believe that, at one time, you could simply buy your entire set of gear at a sporting good store; read the enclosed pamphlet; get an air fill most anywhere, without having taken a class; and hit the water . . .