Being a part of the British Royal Family means having to keep up appearances. Whether it be while performing royal duties or just in normal public appearances, eyes are constantly on members of the Royal Family. It comes with the territory, but it’s difficult to always be perfect 24/7.
Prince William knows that all too well, just like his relatives do as well. But having grown up and matured in the age of the Internet and paparazzi, William has had to be on his best behavior for pretty much his whole life. But it hasn’t always been perfect for William. One of his most drastic moves nearly happened when he was just 19 years old, a formative age for any human being.
Why did William want to leave St Andrews?
William debated leaving the University of St Andrews shortly after having enrolled in 2001. The Prince had apparently regretted his choice of school and his decision to pursue a degree in Art History. He was somewhat homesick and didn’t particularly enjoy the quiet life in the area.
His father, Charles, was set on letting him leave and welcoming him back home. But palace officials reportedly got in Charles’ ear, convincing him that William leaving the school would be bad optics. The only way they were able to convince William to stay? Let him switch courses. William did just that, taking up Geography instead.
William has said Charles was very understanding about his frustrations, and the two talked it out and settled on the proper plan. It was a good one after all, considering William met Kate Middleton at St Andrews not long after.