Hey!
Nobody starts from 100, so don’t worry about being a bit lost there with not much knowledge. You mentioned you have hundreds of hours, and that is already a good starting point, actually. The first thing would be being aware of the Expert Server rules and environment in general, as it would be a bit hard to be a controller without any knowledge of that server, of course.
Then, the next step would be to be mentally ready and prepared. Surely, it’s nothing impossible, but considering this is a game/simulator, this is an extra/additional experience which requires more time and effort rather than simply sitting down and starting to play. The entire preparation, recruitment process and time in IFATC will not be the easiest thing ever, so just know to be ready. But again, it’s not impossible at all, and with the right mindset and effort, you can do it.
Given where you are right now, I highly suggest reading the ATC Manual from Sections 1 to 5 (Section 6 is about Radar, which will not be necessary for you as a new controller). Take your time with it, as it could be a hard and long read at the start. But if you merge this learning with in-app practice ATC sessions, while practising frequently, you will soon start to get the most out of it and make it a habit = everything will seem easier.
Don’t worry about “busy and long ATC sessions”. Those are not what make you an IFATC controller, nor are they even performed at the start of your journey. Your practising and testing phases will usually have no more than 6 to 10 planes, and upon joining IFATC, there is a rank system (closely monitored by IFATC Supervisors) which is meant for you to climb the ladder and gradually get experience with traffic getting more and more. However, and this is very important, controlling busy airports does not necessarily make you a good IFATC controller, and this is something I often say to newer IFATC members. A good IFATC controller knows their limits, learns from their previous mistakes, builds experience gradually, and is a professional member in general. It is also not a requirement to always open the busiest airport, and that depends on each member’s preferences.
At IFATC, there are several ways for you to contribute positively and be a good member. Opening an airport with 100 close inbounds and then getting overwhelmed within minutes doesn’t show you are the perfect controller. Quite the opposite, actually. Quality above quantity at all times.
Take your time now and start learning and practising. Then, check the IFATC Recruiting topic and make sure you fulfil all requirements. Once you’re fully ready, hit the join button and follow the entire recruitment process (which consists of a written and practical test, assigned by your recruiter). Although this is a long message, I might’ve missed some details here and there, so don’t hesitate to ask me or any other member of the community for help. Asking questions is always a good and positive thing.
Good luck, and hope to see you soon there! 