Courtney Dear, as a Marine Biology major, how'd you get such a fear of sharks? I acknowledge that it is very real for you, but chances are good it is a fear/phobia that can be overcome with knowledge and facts.
First, there have been very few attacks on scuba divers. The only one I know of in CA involved a scuba diver using an underwater scooter in an area that seals frequent. Surfers, swimmers, skin divers, kayakers are another matter entirely because they tend to mimic swimming shark food. Scuba divers don't. When was the last time you saw a seal wearing a scuba tank?
Second, you are 30 times more likely to be killed by lightening than a shark attack.
Here's a good website you can use to educate yourself about the possibility of a shark attack while diving.
International Shark Attack File
Don't worry about bleeding either unless you recently received an infusion of fish or seal blood. Sharks recognize the difference. There was a show on TV recently testing shark reaction to blood. Human blood was put in the pool with sharks. No reaction. Fish blood was put in the pool and they went berserk.
Finally, there are thousands upon thousands of scuba dives completed every year in CA. No scuba diver shark attacks. Dive with a large group on a boat with experienced divers and stick with folks you trust to get you out, about, and back to the boat again. Oh, and don't wear fish perfume. And if you can, hookup with someone who can take you to warm, clear water to dive. It is WAY different than our CA coastal waters.
Acknowledging a fear is the first step to overcoming it. Congrats on putting it out there for help.
