FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Research
How does this work?
After our complimentary 30 minute consultation I will send you my New Client form via google forms, and a contract. The contract will describe our objective and is put in place to keep the research focused. It also allows you to dictate the authorized time to spend on the focused research objective. I’m always available to answer questions you may have during that process.
How much do you charge?
It depends on the project. My standard rate is hourly plus expenses. Because each project is unique, we will work together to decide how much time to spend on the focused research objective.
What does a final research report look like?
Sample of a 12 hour research report.
Cibarosa of Castelventrano, Trapini, Sicilia
Do you make any guarantees?
I can guarantee that I will provide a complete report of any finding including what I didn’t find. I cannot guarantee that a conclusion can be drawn or if the records needed for genealogical proof are available.
Why should I hire you and not just research myself on Ancestry/FamilySearch?
As a professional genealogist, I can help when you're unsure or stuck. I understand Italian and American handwriting from the 19th and 20th centuries. I use methods to make sense of conflicting info and uncover hidden details. I know where to find records offline and prioritize key research. I have access to extra databases and can write reports for your family. I specialize in finding answers even when it's not straightforward in genealogy.
Education
SLIG Virtual, Course Four Proving Your Pedigree with DNA, completed September-November 2023
IGHR Virtual, Course Five Genetics for Genealogists: Beginning DNA, completed July 2023
GRIP Virtual, Immigrants to the US after 1890, completed June 2023
ProGen Study Group 62 (15 month program), certificate of completion, June 2023
GenProof Study Group 83 (8 week program), certificate of completion, May 2023
Boston University, Genealogy Studies Program (15 week program), certificate of Genealogical Research, 2021
University of Strathclyde, completed Genealogy: Researching Your Family Tree (via futurelearn.com), 2021
Ringling College of Art and Design, BFA in Fine Arts, 2008
Rhode Island School of Design, summer studies with a focus in Industrial Design and Furniture, 2006