During a pivotal moment in her career, Canadian figure skater Madeline Schizas found herself needing an extension for an assignment while competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics. This unique situation captivated social media after she shared her professor’s supportive response online.
Schizas, a senior at McMaster University, emailed her professor over the weekend, mistakenly believing that her sociology assignment was due on Sunday, February 5, instead of the actual deadline on Friday, February 3. The timing was particularly challenging as she was competing in the women’s short program team event on the same day the assignment was due.
Supportive Response from Professor
In her email, Schizas explained her situation, stating, “I was competing in the Olympic Games yesterday and thought the reflection was due on Sunday, not Friday.” To lend credibility to her request, she included a link to a press release from the Canadian Olympic Committee confirming her participation in the Games. The professor, Dr. Satzewich, responded positively, granting her the extension and encouraging her to focus on her performance.
“Wow! What a special moment. Yes, in the circumstances, an extension is perfectly fine,” Dr. Satzewich wrote. “The triple lutz triple toe combo is a pretty hard move to master, but you’ve got this. Good luck—the whole country is rooting for you and your teammates.”
In a light-hearted touch, Dr. Satzewich also reminisced about his own childhood sporting experiences, revealing, “When I was ten, I scored a goal in hockey and that was challenging enough for me.” His email exemplified not only a professional understanding of the student-athlete’s situation but also a personal connection that resonated with many.
Social Media Reaction
After sharing the exchange on her Instagram account on February 7, Schizas received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow students. Many applauded her professor for his flexibility and understanding. Comments ranged from encouragement for her Olympic journey to praise for Dr. Satzewich’s approach to teaching.
“That’s awesome. Good luck in the games, and with the assignment!” wrote one user, while another quipped about her need to confirm her Olympic status, saying, “The fact that she sent the press release, as if Canadians don’t know who she is!”
Schizas expressed her gratitude with a heartfelt response, acknowledging the support from her professor and others. “Thanks for the support, prof 😭,” she captioned a subsequent Instagram story. She also mentioned her surprise at the level of care people showed regarding her situation.
This incident not only highlights the challenges faced by student-athletes but also exemplifies a supportive educational environment that can adapt to the unique demands of high-level competition. As Schizas continues to represent Canada on the international stage, her experience serves as a reminder of the balance between academic responsibilities and athletic aspirations.