Hello all! I know when I was deciding where to complete my dive master certification, I researched each and every program for weeks looking for a match that suited all of the requirements I was looking for. Requirements such as, a tropical climate, a dive center with an experienced staff, a marine conservation program and a homestay option where I could live with a local to better submerge myself in the culture. Once I decided on Oceans Unlimited, a dive center that met all of my standards, I immediately sent in my deposit and bought my one-way plane ticket to this magical country. I had no idea what to expect but I was extremely excited nonetheless. Now after finishing my dive master, I am continuing on here to complete the IDC and receive my Open Water Instructor Certification!
I have two roommates, Jake and Mitch, who are now in the thick of their dive master training and loving it just as much as I did. I figured it would be useful to those considering an internship here at Oceans Unlimited to have a personalized account of what their life might be like here as a dive master trainee through Jake and Mitch’s experiences.
The boys wake up at our homestay around 6 and eat their breakfast, lovingly prepared by our homestay “mama” Sidey. Once completed, they take their short walk down the hill the shop to begin their day. This week is full of customers and as a dive master interns, it’s their responsibility to get these divers fitted and prepared with all their gear. Once the divers are ready, everyone heads to the boat and sets out to dive the beautiful sites Manuel Antonio has to offer.
Working as an intern here, gives them the unique opportunity to meet divers from all over the world. This week, we have a full boat almost everyday so the boys are very busy. And just like me, they love the organized chaos of a busy dive shop so they can gain more experience leading divers and learning the trade of a dive master first hand.
Once the “work” day is over around 3, the boys have the rest of the afternoon to do as they please. Both Jake and Mitch came to Costa Rica specifically for different reasons. Jake being an avid surfer, came for the waves and Mitch being an animal photographer, came for the incredible abundance and diversity of wildlife. So right when 3 rolls around, Jake hits the beach to surf for a few hours as Mitch hits the jungle to take photos and hike the beautiful trails of the park.