The Duchess of Sussex’s dreams of a diplomatic career were dashed after failing a crucial test during her university years.

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has often been linked to ambitions beyond her royal duties, with whispers of a potential career in politics. However, a recently published book reveals a significant setback that may have derailed her aspirations. According to Finding Freedom by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, Markle’s dreams of entering the political arena took a substantial blow when she failed a vital examination during her university studies.

Born on August 4, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, Meghan first made her mark in the entertainment industry as an actress in the television series Suits. Her transition from Hollywood to royalty captured the world’s attention, especially when she married Prince Harry in May 2018. Yet, long before her royal status, Meghan exhibited a keen interest in international relations and politics, which she pursued during her time at Northwestern University in Illinois.

In 1999, Meghan enrolled at Northwestern, where she double-majored in theatre and international studies. Her academic focus on global affairs, combined with her passion for humanitarian work, sparked her ambitions to enter the diplomatic service. With support from her father, Thomas Markle, and uncle, Mike Markle, Meghan secured an internship at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This opportunity provided her with invaluable experience and further ignited her desire to influence global politics.

However, her aspirations were met with disappointment. While in university, Meghan took the Foreign Service Officer Test, a crucial stepping stone for anyone hoping to work at the US State Department. Unfortunately, she did not achieve the required score, which left her feeling disheartened. The authors of Finding Freedom noted that this failure proved to be a pivotal moment in Meghan’s journey, steering her away from a career in politics.

The revelation has prompted discussions among royal commentators and the public alike. Many wonder how this early setback might have shaped her outlook on life and her subsequent choices. Markle’s foray into politics was largely speculative, as she had never publicly voiced intentions to run for office. Yet, the narrative surrounding her ambitions suggests a persistent longing to make a difference beyond the royal sphere.

The book further details Markle’s early life, highlighting her upbringing and experiences that contributed to her multifaceted identity. As a biracial woman in the entertainment industry, she faced challenges that fueled her advocacy for social justice and equality. Meghan’s journey is marked by resilience, navigating the complexities of her dual identity and the expectations placed upon her as a member of the British royal family.

Critics have frequently scrutinised Meghan’s actions since she stepped back from royal duties in early 2020, labelling her and Prince Harry as “untrustworthy.” Their candidness about their experiences within the monarchy has generated mixed reactions, with some admiring their transparency and others condemning them for what is perceived as a betrayal of royal traditions.

Despite the controversy, Meghan’s philanthropic efforts have remained at the forefront of her public persona. She has championed various causes, including women’s rights, mental health awareness, and racial equality. In this light, her political aspirations appear to be an extension of her commitment to social justice, a theme that resonates deeply with her supporters.

While Meghan’s failure in the Foreign Service Officer Test may have been a major blow to her ambitions at that time, it has not deterred her from seeking avenues to influence change. Her passion for humanitarian work has manifested in various forms, including her involvement with the Archewell Foundation, which she co-founded with Prince Harry. The foundation focuses on advancing mental health initiatives and supporting vulnerable communities.

Looking ahead, many are curious about Meghan’s future endeavours. The Duchess has consistently demonstrated her ability to adapt and thrive in challenging circumstances, suggesting that her political ambitions may still simmer beneath the surface. Whether she chooses to pursue these aspirations again or focus on her current philanthropic work remains to be seen.

As the dust settles on this revelation, it is clear that Meghan Markle’s journey is far from over. Her story reflects the complexities of ambition, identity, and resilience, capturing the imagination of a global audience. While her dreams of a political career may have been dashed in the past, her commitment to effecting change continues to resonate, leaving many eager to see where her path leads next.