My name is Henry, I am 19 and from the United Kingdom.

I have been an intern at Diver Down for six weeks becoming a diver master. During these six weeks I have learnt so much, such as yes, its true, as a diver master trainee you do become everyone’s slave (but it’s worth it!). Seriously though, I have been able to become more confident in myself, by giving dive briefings, which become less terrifying every time! As well as talking to new people daily and making them feel welcome and comfortable. I’ve also learnt many practical skills such as how to use the compressor to re-fill tanks and expanding my diving knowledge for instance how equipment works and improving my diving ability, for example spotting problems underwater and solving them whether its underweighting or even trying to find a seahorse to prove they really do exist!

The reason I chose to come to Divers Down to do my internship is because I first came out in April to begin my diving journey with finishing the open water course, and deciding that this is what I want to, I then carried on and did my advanced open water course. After being fascinated by the water and the marine life I wanted to learn more, as well as meeting Nico who was my instructor, who made my first experience diving enjoyable and very memorable, which was a major factor in me returning! I wanted to learn how I could have a similar impact upon people, and help people appreciate the oceans, not only while diving but out of the water as well. Also, the atmosphere and the professionalism of everyone working at the dive shop were skills I wanted to learn.

The reason for wanting to do my dive master is to not only have access to the professional side of diving, where I am intending on gaining my instructors certification in the future where I can have an impact on people and implement best practises while diving. It will also help with my studies and career, I am going to be studying marine biology in the UK when I get home in September and having a background with diving will hopefully give me some great knowledge and experience for when I begin.

With only a short period of time left here at Divers Down I am going to enjoy every minute.

Thank you to Divers Down for the experience and everyone who has helped me along my journey!