Last week marked Lady Louise Windsor's entry into her third year at the University of St. Andrews. Unlike her older cousin, Prince William, Lady Louise was able to avoid the necessity of a formal university agreement during her time at the Scottish institution. As she embarks on the final year of her studies, she continues to enjoy a quieter university experience compared to the royal spotlight her cousin once faced.
Lady Louise, often referred to as the late Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite grandchild, began her studies at St. Andrews in 2022. The same institution holds a special place in royal history, as Prince William attended St. Andrews in the early 2000s, where he famously met his future wife, Kate Middleton, now the Princess of Wales. The couple both graduated from the prestigious university in 2005.
While Prince William’s time at St. Andrews garnered significant media attention, Lady Louise's experience has been notably different. Prince William required a formal university agreement, which involved regular media updates and an understanding with newspaper editors to respect his privacy in exchange for controlled access to information. In contrast, Lady Louise has avoided such arrangements, enjoying a more private academic journey.
In 2001, when Prince William began his studies, his presence sparked excitement among royal enthusiasts. Sir Michael Peat, King Charles’s former private secretary, was tasked with providing the media with updates about William at least once per term to quell public curiosity. However, Lady Louise’s quieter presence at the university has allowed her to sidestep the same level of scrutiny.
According to GB News, Lady Louise's experience at St. Andrews has been much more low-key compared to her cousin's. Luana Rera, the creator of Dauntless PR, shared insights with the publication, noting that St. Andrews is experienced in managing the challenges that come with hosting a royal student. While Prince William, as a future king, naturally drew more attention, Lady Louise’s lower profile has allowed her to blend in more seamlessly with her peers.
During Prince William’s time at the university, a formal agreement ensured that paparazzi photos were not published in exchange for regular, controlled updates from Sir Michael Peat, who served as Prince Charles’s personal secretary at the time. This level of media coordination was necessary due to William's high status and the public’s interest in his life.
In contrast, Lady Louise's relative anonymity in the press means that she likely won’t require such formal agreements. As a less prominent figure in the royal family, she has been able to enjoy her time at university with far less media intrusion. However, as Luana Rera suggested, Lady Louise likely chooses her friends carefully and avoids situations that could attract unwanted attention.
While Prince William's time at St. Andrews was marked by royal duties and media negotiations, Lady Louise’s academic journey has been quieter and more private. Her ability to navigate university life without the need for formal agreements is a testament to her lower profile and the evolving relationship between the royal family and the media.
