In December I started my classes through National Institute of Genealogical Studies, I started with the basics of the American Studies Certificate. This past week, I finished my 6th class and I am excited to report that I am enjoying all of my classes and I am also doing very well with these classes so far. At this point, my lowest grade has been a B+. Not bad for someone who has not been in a classroom in 14 years.
My last class was Religious Studies 1, which I really enjoyed. There was quite a bit of history discussed within many different religions. I never really thought about the history of religion, beyond what I was taught in school. I really look forward to taking the next Religious Studies class to see what else I can learn. Being raised in private schools all of my life, I definitely appreciate any church. I think that most of the older church buildings are beautiful, the architecture and the stained glass, simply take my breath away.
So, for the three classes I have left to take, Research From Family History Centers to Family Search, US: Land Records and Analysis and Skills Mentoring, I am not sure which one I want to do next. My time restrictions are tight (with work and family) and summer is here. Do I really want to dedicate myself to studies when it is beautiful outside. There are so many things I can be doing instead, like going to the local cemeteries. I found a few older cemeteries by work which I would love to go and photograph. Not to mention, my plans for my research trip east!
Should I move forward with a class that might be easier for me to do, like the Family History Center class? Too many questions with decisions that I need to make. I guess I will sleep on it for a few days and decide from there.
What is everyone doing for the summer? Are you going to continue with the classes you are taking?
Finding Our Ancestors 
I am almost done with the Advanced Methodology Certificate at NIGS. I just started one more class and then am going to knock off for the summer.
Michelle, thanks for letting me know what you are doing with classes and summer.
How long have you been working towards your certificate?
Enjoy your summer.
I’m plugging on with the classes through the summer, but I might take fewer classes in July and August :). I have my first Mentoring class coming on July 5th, and I’m in Research at Family History Centers and Religious Records now. Just finishing up U.S. Census, Vital Records, and Land Records. Glad to see you liked the Religious class.
I’m looking forward to the Mentoring class. I’m anxious to get some feedback from professionals.
If you like big, old churches, you need to see Italy. Amazing. 🙂
Sarah, I think I am going to plug on as well. I think I am going to do the Land Records next and then do Family History Centers after that and follow it all up with the Mentoring class.
The Religious Records class was really great, I am truly looking forward to the second class. I just took a road trip with some family members doing a bit of research and it was amazing how much we discussed religion and the changes over the many years. I think the family was pretty impressed with the information I was able to share from taking this class.
Thanks for reading and letting me know about your classes.
PS, I would love to get to Italy!
I’m realy excited to find your blog! I’ve been contemplating taking classes from NIGS and wanted more info from students. I would like to take classes starting next month and wondered if the first Methodology class would be enough to handle while taking another class as well while working full time? Or…should I take one at a time? Any feedback would be great! Thanks!
Stacey,
I am so glad you found my blog. Hope that it has encouraged you to start classes soon. I started my ninth class today and look forward to starting my next set soon.
I’m going to start in October when I get back from vacation. Really looking forward to it. Glad you are enjoying your experience!