Historically, there has been only one National Signing Day period that I vividly remember. My life forever changed Feb. 1, 2006, when I made a commitment to Michigan State University to earn my degree and compete at the NCAA Division I level.

Fast-forward 12 years, and now we have an early signing period in December and the finale in February. In this article, I wanted to provide three essential tips that will equip you with the skills to be ready for whichever day you decide to sign:

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1. Academics, academics, academics

There are so many talented and skilled young men across the country, but some fall short because they did not make school a priority and they find themselves not meeting the 2.3 grade-point average requirement or having 10 core courses locked before their senior year. Whatever you do, please avoid this behavior at all costs. The academic habits you create now will follow you to college, and it is imperative that you break that cycle. Many coaches are looking for young men who are qualified and will uplift their teams, so make sure you are handling your business.

2. Building a brand

The great Warren Buffet says it takes 20 years to build your reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you will do things differently. This is my mantra, and I live by this quote daily. In this day and age, where technology is at the forefront of everything we do, it is vitally important to protect your brand.

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I believe that every day is an interview, and you have to be sure your social media posts are appropriate and are a true reflection of who you are. Your brand is something that carries equity and can take you anywhere you would like if you play your cards right.

3. Being a pro

Do you wake up each day with purpose? If not, that is something you will have to change in order to be successful at the college football level. Every day is an opportunity to get better and it should be your mission to be a pro in anything you place your name on.

That’s true whether it’s sitting in the front the classroom, helping your teammates make conscientious decisions, watching extra film so you can play faster, or just making sure you are producing maximum effort every single day. If you apply these 3 essential tips to your everyday life, you will position yourself for great things ahead on the gridiron.

Work hard. Be great.

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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