What to Consider as a New Diving Student

While I can't comment on how other instructors conduct their classes, I think it is important to illustrate on what a new student should expect from their instructor who is also responsible for the risks involved while diving.

First - the need to feel comfortable. It is important that a new student feel comfortable with whom they are ready to take scuba lessons from. The instructor will be the one to prepare you to have fun in this exciting sport and probably one of the most significant experiences in your life. If you have an instructor that concentrates solely on the fun side, then I say start looking for another instructor. A good instructor will talk about the fun stuff and will also be able to explain the risks related to scuba diving - not in a negative way, but in a way that will be understood illustrating the importance of taking lessons. Scuba diving is truly a sport that is both exciting and dangerous as well.

Secondly, the instructor should show the willingness to listen to your expectations and explain how the classes would be conducted. An instructor that appears to want to rush you may not be interested in any thing other than handing out c-cards. A good instructor will explain to you the needs for additional classes, and any additional costs that might incur. They will discuss any equipment requirements you'll be expected to have for taking the classes. All I can say here is diving is not a cheap sport and you must have the right equipments to fully enjoy it. Shop wisely and be prepared to spend some cash.