Hi everyone! 
I"ve been randomly lurking/posting around here, but I finally bit the bullet and signed up for my FICO scores/identity protection. As predicted, my scores were kinda a bit surprising since other sites obviously have my scores up a bit higher, but I am beginning to understand the concepts of why the FICO model is better overall (I'm working on it, because I have a long ways to go!)
So far, to improve myself and my scores, I've done the following:
~ I've been responsibly utilizing three unsecured credit cards (two with Capital One; one with Express), and I'm paying those bastards off early each month lol 
~ I've sent disputes on all of my collections accounts, and for those that have returned accurate information stating that yes, I do owe compensation, I've been sending gradual payments each month -- if anything, to shut them up until they drop off. For those that have still insisted on calling me 800 times a day, I've reported them to the BBB, and that has done the trick thankfully.
~ I've studied all three of my credit reports and pretty much disputed all potentially negative information on there. I've gotten a few things removed/modified as a result so far, and at least I'm being proactive and shaking things up a bit.
I"m definitely excited to get myself back on track, and any advice/recommendations/suggestions are always appreciated. 
Take care, and Happy Thanksgiving/holiday season to everyone! 