Posted by ChrisM on May 17, 2001 at 10:24:30:
In Reply to: Further Certification posted by mattschechter on May 16, 2001 at 23:11:21:
you have to complete AOW prior to rescue. Try telling them that on the advanced course dives, you will be accompanied by an instructor (unless you take the "solo diving" elective :) ), so you will be under the care and guidance of a trained professional at all times. Isn't this better for the first dive below 60'??
The best argument, however, is marta's - the Rescue course will make you a much better diver. It will teach you self rescue skills as well as how to recognize trouble in others and stop it before it starts. It will also teach you how to handle emergencies if they do occur. And you can only get there via AOW.
The point of continuing education in diving is not to make you a more reckless diver, but to make you a better and safer diver. As a professor, I find it hard to believe that your father would disagree with the statement that further knowledge, education and experience under the tutelage of a professional is better than being out there and learning it on your own.
Good luck
ChrisM