Professional Genealogist, Linda Debe, shares her genealogy journey that began with a desire to help her mother and a search for her birth parents. Linda is a current IIGS student whose love of genealogy has turned her hobby into a successful career.
When did you first become interested in genealogy?
I began working on my genealogy when I was 16. My mom, she lost custody of some of her children when she was 19. I wanted to help her find them. I am also adopted, so I wanted to find my birth parents.
What made you decide to study with IIGS?
I learned about the International Institute of Genealogical Studies in 2017 in Raleigh NC at the NGS conference. As a type A personality, I wanted all the facts, so I took the info for the school and for other opportunities I picked up, did a comparison of what I would learn, and the time it would take. IIGS was the clear winner. I felt the program gave me a well-rounded education. I have always loved self-paced courses, and studying online made it easier for me. I appreciated the ability to have a payment plan.
What is your favourite IIGS course and why?
I have to say my favorite IIGS course is the “Lecturing Skills: Including Preparation” course. (PD-210). It kick-started my speaking career. I took the course in 2019. My presentation for the course, on Google My Maps. I had over 85 people attend the presentation.
How many certificates do you have?
I have three (3) certificates including Methodology, Basic American Records, and Intermediate American Records certificates. I am six classes away from obtaining the Advanced American Records certificate to complete my PLCGS designation. PLCGS stands for Professional Learning Certificate Genealogical Studies and is a post-nominal credential for 40 or more credits.
How has your education with IIGS helped you with your career?
My education with IIGS has improved my knowledge of American Records, which allowed me to help my clients and peers with their research, as well as my own research. This will assist me in getting additional accreditation from ICAPGEN and certification from BCG. The presentation course I took allowed me to go on the speaking circuit.
What continuing education do you have planned to grow your career?
Once I finish the American Records course, I plan to focus on my accreditation with ICAPGEN. I am also considering taking the Master’s program at Strathclyde. As for my presentation career, I will be designing several 4-week programs to help genealogists with their research.
How long have you been a professional genealogist?
I have been working on my genealogy since I was 16, picking up tips and tricks here and there. IIGS elevated my knowledge and pushed me from hobbyist to professional. I have called myself a professional since 2019, when I started speaking.
Have you made any presentations or given lectures on genealogy?
I started right after I finished the class on lecturing. I give the presentation on Google My Maps. It evolved from 20 minutes to an hour. I also offer a two-hour workshop. Attendees get hands-on practice while everything is still fresh.
I have presented at local and state society meetings as well as at RootsTech, The UGA Summit of Excellence in 2024, and I am currently (Oct-Nov 2024) presenting a 4-week course on Native American Records at the Applied Genealogy Institute. I have a presentation at a nearby State Archives in November 2024 as well.
Do you have a website or blog about your genealogy adventures?
I have a website and several “social media” accounts
- A website called The Sleepless genealogist, (https://thesleeplessgenealogist.com)
- A blog, but it has taken a back seat for now, but there are some good evergreen articles on it. (https://lindasfamilyofnutz.blogspot.com/)
- I have a YouTube channel where I create quick how-to videos for genealogists. (https://www.youtube.com/lindadebe)
- A Facebook page called The Sleepless Genealogist
- My favorite is my Free Google Calendar where you can see genealogical webinars in calendar form and overlay it onto your own personal calendar. (https://thesleeplessgenealogist.com/calendar)
Do you have a business and work with clients?
Yes, I have a business, and work with clients. My business is the name of my website, The Sleepless Genealogist. I specialize in US WWI research and Native American research, but I can help with any United States research.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself?
I consider myself a techo-nerd. I embrace anything technology related. I use technology to work smarter, not harder.
I also love books. I have over 2000 digital books on genealogy, 9000 Kindle books (not all genealogy) and 8 full bookcases. I may need to look into becoming a private library.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
This is not a commercial, or paid endorsement, just an honest opinion about IIGS.
I really want to encourage anyone who is not signed up for the International Institute of Genealogical Studies to consider it. It will be the best investment you make to your genealogy education. It will give you a strong foundation in the records of the USA, Canada, Australia, England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany, or Italy. I believe I have referred at least 6 people to IIGS since 2017 (maybe more). That’s how much I believe in the program.
Thank you so much, Linda, for your referrals to our school. We have a mission to help people reach their goals and preserve family history. We’re so proud of you and your accomplishments!
International Institute of Genealogical Studies
Research With Confidence – Study at Your Own Pace
International Institute of Genealogical Studies trains professional genealogists around the world in genealogical sciences, research records, and professional development skills. As a career trade school, we offer professional credentials in 14 genealogical fields of study for career-minded genealogists and classes for family historians wanting to preserve genealogy, history, and knowledge for families and friends. Continuing education for librarians, law enforcement, professionals, and writers to enhance your career and capabilities. Come learn with us in a flexible, affordable, professional online education environment. Visit https://genealogicalstudies.com
For Registration Information contact Angie at 800-580-0165 ext. 1 in the US and Canada or drop a note in the chat app on our website https://genealogicalstudies.com