Just graduating and want a job

Hello Murphy,

Which island are you interested in? Any particular line of work you interested in? Since you are coming for just 6 months then you'd likely be seeking seasonal type work - waitering maybe?? Do you have a budget in mind for your apartment or room-mate situation. Give us some information on which island & job idea and we can see what feedback we can provide to help you with your plans.

--Islander

I was hoping to find a scuba instructor job. Anybody know how difficult they are to find?

borg-

what island are you looking for? i know of a guy who needs an instructor. they may not be that difficult to find, but to find the right operator is the question. let me know where you're looking and that you are an instructor.

-adam

adam

thanks. I was thinking of doing my instructor cert there later this summer as long as I thought I might be able to find work. I'd be happy with any island. Are instructor salaries enough to make a living?

-borg

borg,

honestly, instructor salaries aren't the best... but you can live off of them. i think that you get paid less, but look at the job. it's great! you get to go diving all the time. how great is that? get PAID to dive?!!! i just wish i could do it.

-adam

Adam,

Maybe I'll fly down sooner. Ever hear of any internships? For example, work as a divemaster and get your padi instructor for free? Which Island would you say is the best compromise between onshore fun and great diving?

-Borg

borg-

well, i have to say that i am biased. i am 100% in favor of st croix over st thomas. the diving here is, in my opinion, way better. you have a variety of dives on st croix where as st thomas is somewhat limited. like i said, this is MY opinion. for onshore fun... it depends on what you're looking for. i like the laid back atmosphere of st croix. plus we have a lot of history on island. as for st thomas, the one benefit that they have is that they are close to other islands. makes it easier to go do day trips to neighboring islands. it's all a matter of preference. for me... i chose st croix and will stay in st croix. working for certification is common, but to get your instructor free is probably unlikely. the course itself is rather pricey - from $2,000 - $3,200. that does NOT include PADI fees. so i doubt you'll be able to get an instructors cert for free.

-adam