Daniel James is a former football player for Yale University. Division I football can be a stressful recruiting process, and Daniel knows that very well. Here is what his process looked like and his advice for current and future college recruits:

How did your recruiting process begin?

After my junior season, I began to take a proactive approach to the recruiting process. I started to understand that just making a highlight video and depending on my high school coach wouldn't get me into my dream school. So, I took advantage of social media, specifically Twitter, to communicate with coaches. I reimagined my account to promote myself as a prime high school recruit and I followed coaches at schools that were interested in me. I made it a point to directly message them as well.

How should recruits message coaches?

My messages were very elaborate. I included a brief background about myself, my most recent accomplishments, what I looked for in a college, my academic marks, and my Hudl highlight tape. After reaching out to coaches in this manner, I began to receive more personal letters and emails from coaches. Eventually, I started to reach out to these coaches by calling them. Keep in mind that most coaches will not answer on the first call, but I left elaborate voicemails, which led to a call back from most coaches. 

How important are camps and showcases?

I created solid relationships with a decent amount of coaches, but I did not receive any offers until I became active in the college camp circuit. I went to countless college camps and select high school camps where I was able to show them the skills and qualities that my highlight tape offered. Going to camps is pivotal if you want to be respected in the recruiting process. You can verify your combine times and skills shown in highlight tapes. 

How did you decide on Yale?

After receiving the majority of my offers during my junior spring, the recruiting process became very stressful. Deciding on a school is one of the most critical decisions that I made in my life. I took countless unofficial visits, which I would advise because an official visit blinds you from the undesired aspects of a university. I also welcomed several coaches to my home for a visit, which I would recommend because you will have the opportunity to talk as long as you desire with coaches while having your family around you. After going through a very strenuous and exciting recruiting process, I committed to Yale University, which has been the best decision of my life so far. I chose a school that I would attend even if I weren't playing football because I knew this great institution would give me the best chance to make a global difference.