It seems like there are new aquarium encounters popping up all the time. (Be sure to check out Scuba Diving’s upcoming November/December issue for five top picks.) But as advanced divers, we can find ways to get behind the scenes through volunteer programs. One great example is the Mystic Aquarium Dive Program, which gives volunteers the chance to experience the exhibits from the inside. You’ll train with a diver at the aquarium to learn how to maintain the exhibits and help support the marine life by vacuuming and cleaning tanks, feeding the animals, and helping the public interact and learn about them during daily shows and through the Ray Feeding Program. In exchange for your hard work, you’ll receive exclusive access to areas of the aquarium like Shark Lagoon, where you can dive with sand-tiger and nurse sharks, or the Atlantic Reef Exhibit, which is a 35,000-gallon tank that houses an artificial reef and more than 30 species of fish. You can also interact with sea lions during the Marine Theater Show, and get up close and personal with the belugas at the Arctic Coast Exhibit. Not only do volunteers get the chance to interact with guests and undersea creatures, but you’ll also get perks like free aquarium admission, discounts in the gift shop, continuing education and training, and staff rates on programs and tickets. The program is open to divers over the age of 18, and most dives are performed daily in the morning and on weekends. Volunteers should be available at least twice a month for a minimum of six months. If you can’t volunteer your time, you can still help to support the aquarium by purchasing a new children’s book about moray eels, Howard’s Search for a Home, for $19.95 on amazon.com. All proceeds go to the Mystic Aquarium. For more info, visit www.mysticaquarium.org or check with an aquarium near you for other volunteer opportunities. — Maria Nunez