1. Check if you can go to college: Find out if you can go to college based on your past and the rules in your state. 

2. Find the right college: Look for a college that has the classes you want to take and is friendly to people who have been impacted by the justice system.

   • Here is a map of all 23 community colleges in Virginia: Find your College | Virginia's Community Colleges (vccs.edu)

     • Click on "Map of Colleges" to show the map, then click on the blue markers on that map to show the college

     • You will need to know what your zip-code is. A zip-code is a special group of numbers that helps show where you live. It's like an address for your neighborhood. You'd use your zip-coded to find schools close to you, so you can pick the best one for you

3. Get your high school diploma or GED: If you didn't finish high school, get your diploma or a GED (General Educational Development Test). Most colleges want you to have a high school diploma.

4. Get money for college: Look for ways to pay for college, like scholarships, grants, or loans. There may be special help for people who have been impacted by the justice system. 

   • Look at this link here that lists some scholarship, money, and funding opportunities: Funding, Scholarships, and Grants for Justice-Impacted-Individuals | Credits2Careers

5. Get ready to apply: Gather all the papers you need, like transcripts, test scores, and a personal statement. You might also have to take a test or fill out a college application.

6. Get help: Look for organizations that can help you go to college. They can give you extra support and resources.

7. Solve any problems: If you have any fines, fees, or legal stuff you need to take care of, do it before you start college.

8. Look into learning a trade: Consider learning a trade or getting a certificate at a college - ask for the college's course advisors.

9. Plan for a place to live and how to get around: If you are in jail, think about where you will live and how you will get around when you get out.

10. Get a mentor: Find someone who can be a mentor and help you through college. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to and get advice from.

Remember, getting into college can be a great step towards personal and professional growth, and there are things available to help you succeed.