- Money gives you options. Start college funds if you haven't already. Every little bit helps. Learn about financial aid as well.
- Be careful where you seek advice, including who you listen to on this forum. You want level-headed advice, not "if you don't pass the SAT in 7th grade you're DOOMED!!!!!!!!!!!" Good advice recognizes that getting into college isn't nearly as hard as getting into Stanford, and that there are colleges offering amazing opportunities at multiple price points and levels of selectivity. Try this one, https://www.amazon.com/If-Fits-Admissions-Princeton-2014-03-18/dp/B01FJ16GRU or this one https://www.amazon.com/Fiske-Guide-Getting-Right-College/dp/1492633305
- Start by exploring your in-state public university system, then branch out from there. Your in-state system is often a best buy, because you get an automatic tuition discount just for being a state resident. A few states, noticeably Pennsylvania, have expensive state colleges where your best price may be elsewhere. In sophomore or junior year, start making a list of things you might like in a school. Some good guidelines here http://schoolbuff.com/qualities.asp Before adding a college to your list, check net price calculator which is required to be on the school's financial aid website.
- Subscribe to a few email loops or podcasts to educate yourself gradually. I often recommend this one http://www.hscounselorweek.com/ and I've become a fan of the College Essay Guy Podcast more recently if you listen to podcasts.