Raine Mitchell
![Raine Mitchell Raine Mitchell](https://imgds360live.s3.amazonaws.com/storefront/3545810/3122527786_1716155068_3545810.png)
Tell us your origin story!
I fell in love with scuba diving as a kid growing up in California. I watched the coolest people in the world put on their scuba gear, walk into the waves and vanish, and I would watch Steve Erwin on Animal planet and think that this was the coolest thing an adult could do! I finally had the chance to experience it for myself over two decades later in 2019 in Puerto Rico and I was instantly hooked.
What caused you to make the leap from amateur to dive professional?
I made the decision to aim for pro in the summer of 2022.
Favorite class to teach?
As a new instructor my favorite class is Open Water, as I love to introduce people to the wide new underwater world and watch their confidence in this new environment explode.
Favorite dive destination?
I haven't had the opportunity to travel to too many places, so I don't really have a favorite but I most want to dive in the Galapagos.
What is your most beloved critter to spot under the waves?
I love finding nudibranchs on a dive!!
What is your “must have” piece of dive equipment?
My must have on a dive is my camera. I love capturing all the amazing life I find underwater.
Favorite non-diving activity?
I love backpacking when I'm not diving.
Favorite post-dive treat or beverage?
My favorite post-dive snack is smartfood popcorn!
Any advice you’d like to offer divers new and old?
My advice for any diver is just keep getting in the water, whenever and wherever you can. Everywhere is a new adventure!