There was some chat about this back in January and February and I wanted to post an update and let folks know about the program. General information about the volunteer dive program at the NAIB can be found at http://www.aquadivers.org/?page=facts. They are currently taking applications for testing in early 2006. The process includes a written test, an interview and an in-water test. One thing to keep in mind when applying is that it may take some time (months) to get assigned to a team once you have qualified. While you are waiting, other volunteer opportunities at the aquarium may be available to you and I would encourage you to take advantage of them.
My experiences with the program: I went through the testing back in Jan and Feb 2005, did my general aquarium training (for all volunteers) in March and April and had my first day as an apprentice diver last Monday. In between I did other volunteer work at the aquarium (dolphin observation - got to watch a female dolphin go through the late stages of pregnancy and a baby male dolphin go through his first few months of life and animal programs - the department that is in charge of training and enrichment for the animals at the aquarium). I have had opportunities to get to know tons more about marine life and the chance to observe and work with animals that I would never have seen up close except through a tank glass, exhibit window or on a truip to an exotic location. In addition to those benefits, I have gotten to know many great people and made lots of new friends - I even found a regular, reliable dive buddy:14:
If you have the time to commit to the volunteer dive program, I highly encourage you to consider applying. If you can be patient while waiting to be assigned to a team, you won't regret it - there are divers on my team who have been volunteering there for many years. Did I mention free local warm water diving all year?
Jackie Cooper
My experiences with the program: I went through the testing back in Jan and Feb 2005, did my general aquarium training (for all volunteers) in March and April and had my first day as an apprentice diver last Monday. In between I did other volunteer work at the aquarium (dolphin observation - got to watch a female dolphin go through the late stages of pregnancy and a baby male dolphin go through his first few months of life and animal programs - the department that is in charge of training and enrichment for the animals at the aquarium). I have had opportunities to get to know tons more about marine life and the chance to observe and work with animals that I would never have seen up close except through a tank glass, exhibit window or on a truip to an exotic location. In addition to those benefits, I have gotten to know many great people and made lots of new friends - I even found a regular, reliable dive buddy:14:
If you have the time to commit to the volunteer dive program, I highly encourage you to consider applying. If you can be patient while waiting to be assigned to a team, you won't regret it - there are divers on my team who have been volunteering there for many years. Did I mention free local warm water diving all year?
Jackie Cooper
