Balancing academics with the demands of elite training and international competition is no small feat. For many skaters, post-secondary education is a way to grow, explore passions beyond skating, and bring new skills back to the ice. 

We spoke with five NextGen and National Team athletes about their journeys in higher education, the lessons they’ve learned, and their best advice for thriving in both school and sport. 

Sara-Maude Dupuis – Women’s Singles 

This Fall, Sara-Maude Dupuis is starting an exciting new chapter at the University of Montreal, where she’s studying pharmacy, a natural extension of her long-time love for science. 

“When I was young, I always knew I had a passion for science and that I wanted to go into the healthcare field,” she explained.

After completing CEGEP in health sciences, she realized pharmacy was the perfect blend of her two favourite subjects: biology and chemistry. 

Balancing two demanding pursuits has required her to sharpen key skills, particularly compartmentalization. On the ice, she focuses fully on training and competition but at school, her attention shifts to classes and studying.  

Her biggest piece of advice to other student-athletes is “Don’t be afraid to reach out to the resources offered to athletes, and make sure you keep up with self-care and spending time with family and friends. That balance is what allows you to focus on school and skating when the time comes.” 

Layla Veillon – Ice Dance 

NextGen ice dancer, Layla Veillon, has chosen a program that complements her skating career: Child and Youth Studies at King’s College in London, Ontario. She sees it as valuable preparation for future roles in skating, such as coaching. 

Her motivation for enrolling while competing is rooted in keeping her options open. “You never know what life will bring,” she said.

“Getting a degree provides more opportunities no matter if we end up coaching, having it in our pocket is always an advantage.” 

Veillon’s skating career has already taught her discipline and organization, which she applies directly to her studies. Juggling training, competitions, and coursework requires careful planning. Her advice to other student-athletes: Organize your schedule, including training and school deadlines, set clear priorities for yourself, and remember to carve out time with friends and family. 

Alexander Brandys – Ice Dance 

Veillon’s ice dance partner, Alexander Brandys, is also at King’s College, studying psychology. Like Veillon, he chose a field that connects to skating, with potential career pathways in coaching or sports psychology. 

For Brandys, strong communication is essential. “Have clear communication with your coaches, professors, and parents to make sure all deadlines and schedules are met,” he emphasized.

Skating has helped him develop these interpersonal skills, giving him confidence in expressing himself and managing expectations. 

He also values hobbies outside of school and sport. Playing in a band with friends gives him an outlet for stress relief, creative expression, and time to recharge. 

Katherine Medland Spence –Women’s singles 

National Team member Katherine Medland Spence is completing her chemistry degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. Drawn to the way chemistry blends math and science with real-world applications, she saw post-secondary academics as a way to maintain balance in her life. 

For Medland Spence, education provides a focus beyond skating. “It’s all about managing priorities and expectations,” she explained. Right now, her priority is learning and gaining something meaningful from her degree rather than focusing on the outcome.

“As long as a I feel that I am learning and getting something positive from it, I am happy.”

Her advice to other student-athletes is not to let external pressures dictate your path. “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and find a balance that works for you.” 

Zachary Lagha – Ice Dance 

For Zachary Lagha, studying choreography and contemporary dance at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec was a natural fit. The program allows him to connect his academic learning directly to his skating. 

“I wanted to learn something new that I could bring onto the ice,” he said.

 But his choice was also guided by a broader motivation: the value of education itself. “Education makes you a good citizen and provides organization and discipline in your life.” 

Lagha applies the skills developed through skating, like resilience under pressure and time management, to his studies. While exams and assignments can be stressful, his years of experience competing under pressure have prepared him well. 

Despite a busy schedule, he thrives on pursuing both passions. Keeping his brain engaged and his days full keeps him motivated, allowing him to reach his full potential. 

Whether they’re making progress in the classroom or at the rink, these athletes prove that balance is possible, showing you can chase big goals in skating while exploring passions and interests beyond the sport. Skate Canada is proud of all our athletes who continue to shine in both areas.