Tuesday, July 7, 2009

ProGen Explained

Recently, the official ProGen website went live. This makes me very happy because I was having a hard time explaining ProGen to people and what exactly I was doing in the group. Now, all I have to do is refer people to the link.

I belong to ProGen 3. We have a few assignments under out belts and are starting to get into a groove. The first online interactions were kind of formal, but I sense things changing as we learn more about each other.

I love ProGen. It was the educational experience I was looking for and couldn't find in the genealogy community. There are assignments about research. There are assignments about the business end of genealogy. ProGen--for me--has been everything I can't find (but want to) in the National Genealogical Society course and the Association of Professional Genealogists membership. And it's free.

ProGen is an 18-month commitment. You have an assignment every month. You are expected to offer feedback on everyone else's work. You also meet monthly online to chat about the chapter covered during that time period.

It sounds scary, but it's not. Everyone brings different experiences and skill sets to the table. We learn from each other. So far I've actually had fun doing the homework and I haven't screwed up too much. That's a win in my book.

If you have serious genealogical aspirations or really want to challenge yourself, I encourage you to consider signing up for an upcoming ProGen session. I'm happy to answer any questions you have and coax you into it as well. :)

9 comments:

  1. Tx Amy, for the clear and direct explanation. I've been feeling like the kid on the sideline of the baseball game. I wish I had cornered you at SCGS for even more about ProGen.

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  2. Oh that's awesome!! Thanks for posting! I'm going to rush right over and check it out!!

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  3. I've been meaning to sign up for a while now. I got the contact info from Sheri F. about a month ago, but just couldn't get motivated to send the email to join. Your post got me off my duff and I sent the request just a moment ago. Thanks for the push, Amy!

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  4. A great overview - I am on the waiting list and added my name after I spoke with you and a few others at Jamboree!

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  5. Thank you for posting this. I've been looking for a way to possibly expand my research skills and this may be just the ticket. Will definitely check the site out.

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  6. Amy, I am glad you are enjoying the group so much. Thanks for sharing the new Web site for people to go for more information.

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  7. Greetings Amy,
    I checked out the link, sent in my request and am now on a waiting list. Thanks for posting about ProGen.

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  8. Amy,
    Yes it is a huge commitment- 18 months. But I have to tell you now that I am almost finished (I am in the first Group) it has been well worth my time and energy. I applaud you and all the other ProGenners for taking the steps to become the best genealogist you can be!

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  9. Amy: A HUGE thank-you for posting about the ProGen study group. I have read Professional Genealogy and consider it to be a genealogical education between two covers.

    I have sent an e-mail asking to be placed on the waiting list.

    Thanks again!

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