How to control actuator speed and direction using potentiometer

No it don't have a pot built in. My plan was not for you to build and and program it.
When I took over this project I was told I'm only going to do the mechanical part and after everything was done the professor wanted more and more......I'm doing what I can I've been researching for ever trying to find a solution...the other people in my group don't do a thing........trust me if I new how to do something I won't ask... The way I'm writing it sounds like I'm lazy and I don't want to do a thing but that's not the case at all. So I don't mean to be rude but please don't give me crap I have a lot of my own if this easy for you then help me and if not then thanks for trying. And again my question was not answered before