Brandon Maitland has heard it several times.

The succinct message from his older siblings, parents, friends and even fellow employees at a factory where he has worked for the past year.

Now, the 21-year old decided he's at an age where it's time to get serious about his future. Maitland has committed the next three years of his life to studying Civil Engineering at George Brown College and then pursues a degree at university.

"There was a time when I wasn't exactly sure of what I wanted to do in life," said the Toronto-born Maitland. "I knew that I had to make some money working and if I want to live a comfortable life, I need to do more than what I'm doing now."

At 6-foot-3, Maitland is also an athlete. He has played football, soccer and baseball, but basketball is where he found more enjoyment and success, helping St. Marguerite d'Youville win a Peel Region high school championship.

Maitland was at George Brown in 2011 studying Architectural Technology, but that only lasted one month. Then, it was off to Peterborough for Bio Technology at Fleming College. Again, it was a short stay. Same for 2013 when his interest perked with the law program at Seneca College, but that also didn't work out.

Then, he met up with George Brown head coach Jonathan Smith.

"He connected with me right away," recalled Maitland. "We started talking about several things and he made a great deal of sense about education. I also knew that in order to play basketball (at George Brown), I had to stay focused on school and do well. What I noticed about (Smith) is that he cared about me and became more like a friend."

Maitland said he always had an interest in the finite measurements and blueprints involved in building bridges, houses and structures. Now, anxious to start classes at the Casa Loma Campus, he may very well be off to a great career.

On the hardwood, and having been away from competitive basketball for a few years, Maitland admits to needing some work on his dribbling skills. But he's quick and has a great shot.

"He's very poised with the basketball," said Smith. "

George Brown has pre-season games hosting NCAA teams Howard University (Aug. 14) and Fairmont State University (Aug. 30) prepping for the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association league opener with Seneca (Oct. 22). - DG