The moment I took my first breath underwater, I knew this was it.
From desert cities to world-class reefs, Rosie’s journey into professional scuba diving followed an unconventional path. Born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and raised in El Paso, Texas, Rosie grew up far from the ocean, but never far from curiosity. Family trips to the beach sparked an early fascination with marine life that stayed with her long before scuba diving became a career.
After earning a degree in Journalism and Communications at the University of Kansas, Rosie set off traveling on her own. It was during those travels that she discovered scuba diving, and everything changed.
Discovering scuba diving and the instructor path
What began as a personal adventure quickly evolved into a professional calling. Rosie completed her Divemaster and Instructor Development Course (IDC) in 2018, initially drawn by the opportunity to work and travel as a dive professional. What surprised her most was how much she loved teaching. Helping students build confidence, master skills, and grow into dive leaders became the most rewarding part of her work.
From instructor to Course Director
Since becoming a scuba instructor, Rosie has taught in Honduras, North Carolina, and Hawaii. These experiences exposed her to different conditions, learning styles, and training environments, and helped shape her as a mentor and leader. Over time, she worked her way from OWSI to Course Director in Utila, Honduras, gaining extensive experience in professional-level dive training and mentorship.
Why Buddy Dive felt like the right fit
When Rosie learned about the opportunity at Buddy Dive Resort, she immediately felt it was the right fit. The academy’s reputation for high standards, professionalism, and strong instructor development aligned closely with her own values. She was ready for a new challenge and excited to bring her coaching-focused teaching style into a program known for quality, consistency, and fun.
Training dive professionals on Bonaire
Training future dive professionals is something Rosie genuinely enjoys. With world-class shore diving, calm conditions, and everything located on site, Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire offers an immersive environment for Divemaster training, IDC programs, and MSDT development.
Rosie’s teaching style is coaching-focused and relationship-driven. She takes time to understand each candidate’s strengths, challenges, and goals, combining clear expectations with personalized feedback. The focus is not just on passing exams, but on developing confident instructors who can perform well in real-world situations.
What sets Buddy Dive Academy apart
According to Rosie, the real strength of Buddy Dive Academy is the balance between high training standards and a supportive learning environment. Candidates are treated as individuals and encouraged to grow together. Living, diving, and training in one place helps build strong connections and a positive team dynamic.
Looking ahead
Rosie’s vision for the dive academy of Buddy Dive Academy is simple. She wants it to be a place where divers do more than earn certifications. Her goal is for every Divemaster, IDC candidate, and MSDT instructor to leave Buddy Dive Resort feeling supported, challenged, and confident in their abilities. Her advice to anyone considering professional dive training is to follow your passion, embrace the challenge, and never stop learning. Most importantly, enjoy the journey; the people you meet and the places you’ll see make it an unforgettable adventure.
Three words that define the experience:
Professional. Supportive. Immersive.
FAQ: IDC, Divemaster & MSDT at Buddy Dive
What is the Instructor Development Course (IDC)?
The IDC prepares you to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. It combines theory, teaching workshops, and in-water practice to get you ready for the Instructor Examination (IE).
Do I need to be a Divemaster first?
Yes. Divemaster is the first professional level and a required step before entering the IDC. It focuses on leadership, assisting with courses, and supervising dives.
What makes Buddy Dive’s IDC different?
Buddy Dive is known for high training standards paired with a supportive, coaching-focused environment. The program goes beyond minimum requirements and focuses on real teaching confidence and professionalism.
How long does the IDC take?
The IDC is an eleven-day program followed by the two-day Instructor Examination It’s an intensive but highly rewarding experience.
What is the Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) rating?
MSDT is a rating you earn after becoming an instructor. It requires certifying at least 25 divers and holding five specialty instructor certifications, making you more versatile and employable.
What can I expect from Divemaster training at Buddy Dive?
Divemaster training at Buddy Dive is hands-on and immersive. You’ll assist with real courses, guide dives, and build strong leadership and practical skills in a professional dive environment.