When I first joined CGC as a Premium Member, I was confused and overwhelmed. Here is what I've learned since then!

I have only been a member of CGC/Collectors Society since February first of this year, however I think I have finally figured those burning questions I had at the beginning out, and learned my way around a little bit. I had really only JUST found out about CGC a couple of years ago, and last year acquired my first two CGC certified books at WW Chicago 2008. And I found them to be so much fun, I contemplated full membership for months. And then I finally took the plunge.

But being a brand new member was a bit overwhelming, and a good number of the questions that I had at the very beginning I could not find the answers to on the CGC Chat Boards. But then again, I could have just been using very bad search words! Anyways, I thought perhaps there could be others out there who have recently joined and might have the same questions that I had, and could use some help from somebody who has recently gone through the same sort of initiation by fire.

However, before I begin I will mention first and foremost that your fellow members (and CGC themselves really) are always there to help you! I didn't expect to have so many other members send messages, tips, suggestions, and assurances as I did when I first started (albeit being only a member for a little over a month I'm still a "newbie" myself). The members here have just been awesome, and if I've missed responding to anybody who has sent me a message (I've really tried to reply to everyone), I apologize, and please know I appreciate everything!

The main thing that had me so confused at the start was the pure wealth of information located in just about every facet of the CGC universe. I hope to break things down, and make it a little more comprehensive, less overwhelming, and more fun.

I'll be breaking down my posts individually so that nobody has to read a post that may end longer than my post about the Watchmen movie. In the meantime, if anybody would like to ask me anything pertaining to what the newbie process has been like, please feel free, and I will do my best to give you honest answers!