Hopefully, I won't open up the debate too much. Please remember that this is only a personal opinion. Others will (and often do) disagree with much of what I say...
It sounds like your training is in-fact a "minimum skill set," as noted by your LDS. Chances are you've been taught to the minimum standard.
OW courses are not taught equally. Over the years, the standards have diminished. My OW requires the student to pass a 400M swimming evaluation before moving on with the training. The course itself is around 50 hours of training time. I teach in a Club setting so time is not a problem; if it takes them a year, no problem. Students must show good performance at every step before they are moved forward in the training. There's no such thing as "pushing them along." The card they get is the same one you've already received.
I tell the new students to gain experience and the only way they can do that is by doing. After 25 hours logged, they can come back to do the advanced (that's another story).
I've pointed this out, because if you aren't really ready to be diving, get more instruction. Whatever they call it: Rescue, Advanced, Divemaster keep getting the training until you're a solid diver. You will indeed know; if you don't, you're not ready.
Many divers are certified through a shake and bake system and they are certified because they meet the minimums. For me minimums aren't enough.
I'd also look at other training that's available. Check it out; you might be surprised. Good luck!
