The transition from high school to college can be challenging for everyone, athlete and non-athlete alike. But playing a sport in college can be especially demanding because it comes with a set of expectations and requirements that athletes may not have experienced during their time in high school.

The most successful student-athletes are able to transition themselves effectively regardless of their talent or skill through these five traits and behaviors:

Work ethic (Grind). Transitioning to college is something that requires a lot of attention to detail and work ethic. Coaches are looking for student-athletes who are ready to work hard and bring others along with them. Nobody wants a lazy teammate or a person because they will be a team cancer. Most importantly, your work ethic in the classroom often parallels how hard you will work on the field. Can you learn the playbook or schemes? Positioning yourself around the right teammates and working hard will take you far during your college journey.

Being punctual. I can vividly remember showing up late to my first collegiate workout. I was so embarrassed because it was truly an accident that could have been avoided. But, I can assure I was never late to another workout for the rest of my time at Michigan State because I was adamant about setting several alarms to ensure I was getting up on time. My coach would always say that to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is to be forgotten. Being on time is vitally important because it demonstrates discipline and commit to the program.

Great attitude. Coaches are looking for players who display a can-do spirit and who do not question authority. Players that listen and learn. Your attitude can dictate how far you go life on and off the field. And remember, your attitude will be something that people around you will not forget. 

High moral fiber. College athletes are under greater media scrutiny, so it is imperative that to realize that playing collegiate football comes with a lot of responsibility. You represent key stakeholders, alumni, former legends, and most importantly, yourself and your family. When your teammates want to make poor choices, ask yourself "What would my mother do in this situation?" It may prevent you from making some poor choices that you will regret later in life. Be a person who displays high character even when no one is watching you. Your coaches--and others--will take notice.

Put The Team First (PTTF).  Football is the ultimate team sport and college football forms specials bond. You will be connected to various groups of teammates for the rest of your life. Coaches are looking for young men who are not individuals, but want to do anything to help the team win whether that be sacrificing a redshirt, a positon switch, or just holding your teammates accountable on all levels. Remember, everyone has to be on the same page in order to achieve the goals you set out to achieve.

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Work hard. Be great.

Ashton Henderson was a four-year letterman at defensive back for Michigan State University as well as an honor student and co-author with former teammate Travis Key of “Beyond The Gridiron: How to successfully transition into collegiate football,” a detailed account of what it takes to be a Division I college football player and successful in life. To learn more about their mission and purchase your copy today, visit: www.beyondthegridironllc.com