To Get the Story, a Land-Loving Journalist Had to Dive Deep

As a seasoned climate reporter, I’ve always been driven to get to the bottom of the story. But little did I know, my latest assignment would require me to take the phrase “dive deep” quite literally. I had been following the work of a team of scientists who were conducting research in the Mediterranean Sea, and I was determined to join them on their expedition. The problem was, I had never scuba dived before.

At first, I thought it would be a breeze. After all, how hard could it be to strap on some gear and plunge into the depths of the ocean? But as I soon discovered, scuba diving is a skill that requires patience, practice, and a healthy dose of humility. I enrolled in a scuba diving course, and let me tell you, it was a humbling experience. My instructor, a seasoned diver with years of experience, took me through the basics of scuba diving, from breathing techniques to equipment usage.

It wasn’t easy, to say the least. I remember my first dive like it was yesterday. I was nervous, and my breathing was erratic. My instructor had to remind me to relax and breathe slowly, but it took me a while to get the hang of it. Despite the initial struggles, I was determined to master the skill. I practiced and practiced, until I finally felt comfortable in the water.

And then, the moment of truth arrived. I was going to join the scientists on their research vessel in the Mediterranean Sea. As I descended into the crystal-clear waters, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the underwater world. Schools of fish darted past me, and the sunlight filtering down from above created an otherworldly glow. It was like nothing I had ever experienced before.

Over the next few days, I dove repeatedly, gathering footage and conducting interviews with the scientists. It was exhilarating to see firsthand the work they were doing to study the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. And I was grateful to have had the opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zone and learn a new skill.

As I reflect on the experience, I realize that it’s not just about the story; it’s about the journey. As a journalist, I’m always looking for ways to get closer to the action, to get the scoop. But sometimes, that means taking a leap of faith and trying something new. And who knows? You might just discover a new passion. For me, scuba diving has opened up a whole new world of storytelling possibilities. And I’m excited to see where it takes me next.