McMaster University senior Madeline Schizas, a member of Team Canada, successfully secured an extension for her sociology assignment while competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics. Schizas mistakenly believed that an assignment for her Sociology 2FF3 course was due on Sunday, February 6, rather than the actual deadline of Friday, February 4. Upon realizing her error, she reached out to her professor, Professor Satzewich, to explain her situation.
In an email shared by Schizas on her Instagram page on February 7, she wrote, “Hi Prof. I am a student in your Sociology 2FF3 course and am wondering if I could get a short extension on this week’s reflection. I was competing in the Olympic Games yesterday and thought the reflection was due on Sunday, not Friday.” To substantiate her request, she included a link to the Canadian Olympic Committee press release confirming her participation in the Games.
Given that the assignment deadline coincided with a busy competition day, Schizas needed flexibility. Professor Satzewich responded positively, acknowledging the unique circumstances. “Wow! What a special moment. Yes, in the circumstances, an extension is perfectly fine,” he wrote. He encouraged her to focus on her performance, stating, “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.”
Satzewich’s message also included a light-hearted anecdote about his own childhood hockey experience, adding a personal touch to their exchange. He later shared a photo of himself watching Schizas compete, expressing pride in her achievements with the caption, “So proud of you, Maddie!”
Schizas expressed her gratitude on Instagram, thanking her professor for his support and sharing that she was surprised by the public’s reaction to her request. “I did get my extension,” she wrote, noting the overwhelming response from her followers. Many users on Instagram applauded Professor Satzewich for his understanding, with comments like, “That’s awesome. Good luck in the games, and with the assignment!” and “We’re all cheering for you!”
The interaction highlighted a supportive academic environment, showcasing how educators can accommodate students’ unique challenges, especially those balancing rigorous academic commitments with high-level athletics. Schizas, who is on track to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Society, continues to represent Canada on the world stage. As the Olympics progress, both Schizas and her professor have garnered attention for their collaboration, embodying a blend of athletics and academia that resonates with many.
