When you are starting out as a new diver, one of the most important decisions you can make is who to choose as your instructor. A good instructor can inspire a lifetime of diving, while a poor instructor can turn someone off from diving entirely. Hopefully, if you have found your way to my page, I can help you find a good instructor and avoid the bad ones. I want to be the first to say that I won't be offended if a prospective student decides it isn't a good fit with me and chooses to go with another instructor. As a matter of fact, there are a few around that I would happily recommend. All you have to do is ask.
The first thing you should do when looking for a quality instructor is to make sure they are teaching through a reputable agency. There are many SCUBA training agencies out there, and you may even hear people bashing a particular agency. I'm here to say that there are good and poor instructors in every agency. I personally teach through SCUBA Diving International as I find their philosophy meshes well with mine. As a new diver, I earned cards through many different training agencies, and all the instructors I had were top-notch. When looking at an instructor, please go to the training agency they teach through and verify that they are current and not suspended. This is a good first step in selecting an instructor.
When considering a prospective instructor, it is crucial to engage in a conversation with them to determine if your personalities and learning styles align. Establishing a good rapport with your instructor is essential for a productive learning experience. Each instructor has a unique approach to teaching, which may resonate differently with individual students. By discussing your expectations, learning preferences, and goals with the instructor, you can gauge whether there is a good fit between both of you.
Compatibility with your instructor goes beyond just the teaching style; it also involves factors such as communication, feedback mechanisms, and mutual respect. A harmonious relationship with your instructor can enhance your motivation, engagement, and overall satisfaction with the learning process. On the other hand, if there is a mismatch in personalities or teaching methodologies, it could lead to frustration, lack of progress, and ultimately a negative learning experience.
Therefore, investing time in getting to know your prospective instructor before committing to a learning program is a wise decision. It allows you to assess whether you feel comfortable, supported, and understood in their presence. Remember, a positive student-instructor relationship can greatly impact your educational journey and contribute to your success.