Before becoming the Duchess of Sussex and a star on Suits, Meghan Markle studied at Northwestern University in Illinois and joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She quickly stood out for her confidence, style, and charity work, like organizing a dance marathon for cancer patients and helping give prom dresses to local teens.
Some classmates admired her leadership and charm, but others thought she was “too assertive” or “too persuasive.” Royal experts say these qualities praised in the U.S., don’t always fit well in the British royal family, which values tradition, teamwork, and keeping a low profile.
Author Andrew Morton and royal commentator Hilary Fordwich believe Meghan’s sorority years helped her develop strong social and leadership skills. She learned how to meet people, make them feel welcome, and represent her group, skills that helped her during royal events. But the royal family is different. Standing out or focusing on individuality can create problems.
At first, Meghan’s energy and charm made her popular. But her need for independence and her openness in criticizing the royals later caused tension and hurt her image in Britain.
Meghan’s college experience shaped her ability to connect with people and lead, but those same traits;confidence, visibility, and a desire to be heard—clashed with the expectations of a monarchy built on quiet duty and strict tradition.
