During his time at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, Prince William adopted a different name to navigate university life more anonymously. While officially known as William Wales, the prince was informally referred to as “Steve” by his peers. This choice allowed him to blend in with the student body and minimize the attention he received due to his royal status. This period was one of the few times William could experience a semblance of normality, away from the intense scrutiny that has characterized much of his life.
The agreement with the media to give William space during his studies was a significant aspect of his time at St Andrews. This arrangement was crucial in allowing him a relatively normal university experience, free from the relentless attention that typically accompanies members of the royal family. Despite this, there was still considerable curiosity about the young prince, who had been a public figure since birth. From his first appearance in Princess Diana’s arms to his solemn walk behind her coffin, William’s life has been marked by public milestones.
William’s decision to use the name “Steve” was not merely a casual choice but a thoughtful strategy to manage his identity and interactions. It provided him with a level of anonymity that was rare for someone of his status. His peers, including future wife Kate Middleton, respected this desire for privacy, contributing to a supportive environment that allowed their friendship to flourish into a romantic relationship. The couple’s relationship began at university, where they both initially enrolled in the history of art program. William later switched to geography, and they shared classes and social circles, gradually growing closer.
Their time at St Andrews culminated in their graduation in June 2005, an event attended by senior royals, including the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, and Camilla. This ceremony was not just a personal milestone for William and Kate but also a significant public event, reflecting the careful balance the couple has always tried to maintain between their private lives and public roles. The Queen’s presence underscored the importance of this moment in William’s life, a rare occasion where he could celebrate an achievement relatively free from royal duties.
The use of alternate names is a practice William and Kate have continued in various contexts. In Scotland, they are known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, titles that date back to the 15th century for the heir to the Scottish throne. This title is part of a broader tradition of royal titles that vary depending on the region, highlighting the couple’s roles within the United Kingdom’s different national contexts. This practice reflects their adaptability and the importance they place on respecting regional traditions.
William’s use of a different name at university was not just a practical measure but also a symbolic one. It represented a brief period in his life where he could step away from his royal identity and explore who he was as an individual. This experience likely contributed to his understanding of privacy and normalcy, elements he has tried to maintain in his life with Kate and their children. Their efforts to provide their children with a relatively normal upbringing, despite the public interest in their family, mirror the values William experienced during his university years.
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Source: The Wall Street Journal
