So just over a year ago in February 2013 I decided to finally put my credit back together and start rebuilding. Wasn't easy I had many derogatory accounts and all 3 of my scores were below 600. Mid 500s for that matter... now a year later all 3 of my scores are just over 700 now! I worked hard and paid all my collection accounts off and had most of them removed while the others I watched painstakingly as they eventually fell off (all my problems were around 7 years ago). I got three secured cards and a few store cards and even a small loan from my credit union to get a good credit mix. Since then, and recently I've finally entered Prime territory. Barclays (semi prime) gave me their Rewards card first and since then I've been approved by Chase Freedom then Discover and this morning I had my secured card unsecured and my deposit refunded. I immediately called BofA and asked if I could convert it to their Travel Rewards card with the chip and they instantly approved me and even raised my CL from $300 to $1800 all with keeping the same credit history! Sorry for the rant but I'm super stoked, considering where I was a year ago today. So it is possible with hard work and patience. 
Thank you and I hope it motivates people and shows them it is possible. I know a year seems like forever when it comes to improving your credit but it does get better. I was in your shoes a year ago and I read so many positive stories that motivated me. It was very frustrating, I read the forums every night and seemed to check my credit scored every second I had. I even constantly went to pre approval links at Chase, Discover, Cap 1, Barclays and every where possible to get a better card (without getting an inquiry) weekly and sometimes daily. I was kind of obsessed but it paid off. Barclays eventually went from 'we couldn't find a pre approved offer' to 'you've been pre approved' and I jumped for joy! Then two months later Chase did the same and I got the Freedom card I've always wanted! Then finally 2 weeks ago Discover as well! Just keep at it and it'll happen to you too! My next card I want is an Amex but they longer have a pre approval link. I'm going to give it a few months and pull the trigger on their gold charge card. Good luck and just be patient and make sure not to have any late payments. Your credit WILL get better. Thanks for listening
Well done, keep up the good work!!
Congrats your story has been very motivational for me this morning!!!!!
Congrats on the graduation from secured cards and the new cards and credit improvement!
Starting Score: TU 629 6/2013Thanks everyone!