Becoming a PADI Instructor was always a dream for Romi, a keen diver from Israel. Her love for the underwater world and interest in marine biology led her to take the next step in her diving career. This month, she completed her PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) with Scuba Dive Online and their PADI 5 star partner centre, PKT Diving, in beautiful Phi Phi.
Romi’s transition from passionate diver to PADI Instructor was made possible by Scuba Dive Online’s “hybrid” course structure. She attended the IDC LIVE online classroom curriculum section with online expert, PADI Course Director Monique Richards and completed the in-water section with Course Director Alex Arnold at PKT Diving. This flexible system allowed Romi to continue travelling through Vietnam while attending online classes. She even joined one online session from a night bus stuck in the mud in the middle of the jungle. Now that’s dedication!
Why Scuba Dive Online?
Out of all the dive centres Romi researched worldwide, Scuba Dive Online and PKT Diving offered the best schedule for her time limitations. Their outstanding reviews and highly qualified and experienced PADI Course Director team also made them the obvious choice to go from passionate diver to PADI Instructor.
According to Romi, “Before starting the online section, I was pretty stressed. As someone with ADHD, I didn’t know if I’d be able to sit through three-hour lectures.” Fortunately, Scuba Dive Online exceeded her expectations. Monique, her instructor, used unique teaching tools to keep lessons engaging. She made sure each candidate, followed along and understood the material, adapting the course to meet their needs. “With candidates from five different countries on my IDC, it was important than everyone could follow along and join in”.
Overcoming Challenges
One of Romi’s biggest fears was passing the written exams, especially in the early stages. However, Monique guided her through the challenges, offering different explanations and simplifying difficult subjects. Scuba Dive Online’s unlimited access to digital practice exams and study materials really helped. So, Romi went from struggling with her exams to scoring a perfect 100% on her Instructor Exam.
“I couldn’t have done it without Monique and Scuba Dive Online,” Romi says. “They made the most stressful part of the course feel stress free.”
The In-Water Experience at PKT Diving
When Romi arrived at PKT Diving for the in-water portion of her IDC, she was nervous. Her last experience with a skill circuit was years ago. However, under the guidance of PADI Course Director Alex Arnold, Romi quickly regained confidence. Moreover, Alex knew exactly how to support each student. He continued the strong sense of teamwork that had formed during the online portion.
Romi particularly appreciated how the hybrid format gave the team extra time in the water. With the classroom section already completed online, they could focus entirely on practicing their skills, presentations, and demonstrations. By the time the IE arrived, Romi and her fellow candidates felt fully prepared and supported.
“We did way more in-water training than the IDC requires, and it was perfect. Plus it ensured that we went into the IE feeling ready.”
A Future of Opportunity
Now a certified PADI Instructor, Romi can’t wait to combine her scuba diving with her marine biology studies. She has already begun volunteering with an organization that specializes in diving with people with additional needs. In the future Romi hopes to use her PADI Instructor certification and marine biology degree to pursue scientific research diving.
In conclusion, the journey from passionate diver to PADI Instructor was made easy by Scuba Dive Online and PKT Diving. The flexible hybrid structure, experienced Course Directors, and extra in-water training made the entire experience both enjoyable and unforgettable.
Thank you to Romi for her shining testimonial, and we wish her the best of success with her future goals.
If you are thinking about becoming a PADI Instructor and think our “hybrid” approach would suit your time constraints, contact the Scuba Dive Online team today.