Diving Into Success: Zi’s Journey to Certifying Her First Student with Sierra Madre Divers
At Sierra Madre Divers, every instructor’s journey is unique and inspiring. Recently, we had the chance to sit down with Zi, a newly certified PADI Instructor, who shared her experiences from learning to dive to certifying her very first student. Her story is a testament to passion, dedication, and the supportive environment Sierra Madre Divers provides.
What inspired you to become a PADI Instructor?
Zi: The first time I got into the blue water, I never thought I would become an instructor. It feels surreal and amazing at the same time. The idea started after I earned my Advanced Open Water certification in 2023 here in Bohol. Then I had a chance to borrow some underwater photography equipment during a trip to Semporna. I was fascinated by the pictures I took and realized that I wanted to spend more time underwater and improve my skills. Becoming an instructor seemed like the logical next step.
How did you prepare for your IDC?
Zi: It took a lot of planning. I needed to save money and map out how I would spend my time on the islands. I made sure to organize everything in advance so I could fully focus on my training and enjoy the process without distractions.
What was your experience during the IDC at Sierra Madre Divers?
Zi: The whole experience was really good and chill. Troy, our Course Director, is very patient, detail-oriented, and has a great sense of humor. The process was logical, and everything went according to plan. The framework and theory were very helpful, and Troy’s feedback gave me the confidence I needed to succeed. It was an unforgettable experience.
What was it like certifying your first student?
Zi: Certifying my first student was both exciting and nerve-wracking. At first, I worried about not being didactic enough and about my English skills, but the staff helped me a lot. They wrote out sequences for me and gave me suggestions for teaching. Seeing my student progress and get excited underwater was a truly happy moment for me.
What is your most memorable moment from the IDC?
Zi: Honestly, the entire experience was precious. If I had to pick one, I would say the Dry Round sessions. They were like cosplay games, and we had so much fun and laughter doing them.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a PADI Instructor?
Zi: My advice would be:
- Don’t stress too much! Diving is about having fun, so enjoy the process and don’t overthink things.
- Prepare adequate time for the Instructor Examination and practice real-world teaching scenarios.
- Research dive centers and find a mentor that suits your personality and goals. Troy at Sierra Madre Divers was the perfect mentor for me—he’s positive, funny, and respectful.
- Just go for it! If it’s your dream, take that leap.
What are your future goals as a PADI Instructor?
Zi: I want to keep improving my teaching skills and inspire more people to become divers. I’d also like to combine diving with my passion for underwater photography and experiment with new styles and techniques.
What made Sierra Madre Divers the ideal place for your IDC?
Zi: It’s such a warm and welcoming community. Everyone here shares their knowledge and helps each other out. The passion for diving is contagious, and you always feel supported. The balance of professionalism and fun made Sierra Madre Divers the perfect choice for me.
Final Thoughts On Zi’s Experience and Our IDC Program
Zi’s journey from diver to instructor is a shining example of what’s possible with passion, preparation, and the right mentorship. Her story is a reminder that diving is not just about exploring the underwater world but also about personal growth and inspiring others to do the same.
At Sierra Madre Divers, we’re proud to be part of so many success stories like Zi’s. If you’re ready to start your journey toward becoming a PADI Instructor, we’d love to help you take the plunge. Contact us today and take the first step toward your dream diving career!
