Best of luck to you, OP! Like others said, it would be wise to take action on your part immediately to avoid further undesirable actions from collections. Not all of them are willig to delete records from the credit reports for a full payment, but you should try regardless. Always communicate such requests via writing and never on the phone. You want to make sure that you have a written proof should they agree to delete the undesirable records off your credit report. Certified mail with return receipt is your friend. 
As for a credit card of your own, I would recommend getting a secured credit card from banks like Bank of America, Capial One, etc. Do NOT, under any circumstances, apply for a credit card with banks like Credit One, which many people get confused with Capital One because the logo looks so similar. Secured cards require a deposit that will get you started with a small starting credit limit. Some of them may require annual fee. But that's all you should pay. Credit One is NOTORIOUS for charging people left and right with ridiculous fees and interest.
Start small and put a small purchase on your secured card and then pay it off immediately... then rinse/repeat. That should be the starting point.
Good luck! The community here indeed is very helpful and knowledgeable.
EDIT: Here are some links of secured credit cards that you may want to try.
Discover It Secured Card: Cashback rewards, Free monthly FICO score, NO Annual Fee
BankAmericard Secured Card: $39 Annual Fee, Deposit Refund after 12 Months of Good Use
CapitalOne Secured Card: NO Annual Fee, Credit Limit Increase after 5 Months of Good Use
You want to establish yourself with a bank you want to form a long term relationship with. It's never too late. Others may be able to chime in and give you better suggestions for picking the right secured card to start with.
