PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
This project created a one-year training program at University of California, Santa Barbara's Marine Science Institute to support students from underrepresented communities in obtaining scuba diving certification for marine research.
PROJECT SUMMARY
Scuba diving is a valuable skill for marine research, but the training and costs required can create further barriers in a field that already lacks representation from many communities. The DIVErsity in Diving Program (DDP) was designed to address these obstacles by providing comprehensive support for undergraduate students from underrepresented communities to complete dive training and enter marine science research.
The program supported four undergraduate students through all levels of training, from basic swim lessons to scientific diver certification. Beyond removing financial barriers related to training and gear costs, the project included training mentors in best practices to create a supportive learning environment. Students were recruited through existing programs on the University of California, Santa Barbara campus, targeting those interested in ecology, conservation science and related research. By the program's conclusion, the DDP fellows were conducting research in diving-related labs and had begun the process of becoming scientific divers themselves.