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According to a new book, Meghan Markle’s ambitions to launch a career in politics were once thwarted by a test she took while considering a future in U.S. diplomatic service. Though she’s never publicly stated a desire to enter politics, rumors have long swirled around the Duchess of Sussex’s ambitions, especially given her engagement with social issues and public advocacy.
In an early episode of her Archetypes podcast, Meghan offered a glimpse into her self-image growing up, describing herself as “the smart one, not the pretty one,” and even compared herself to Betty Cooper, rather than the glamorous Veronica Lodge, from the Archie comics. She recalled, “I always thought, well, I’m way more Betty than Veronica… Am I going to get the guy one day? And I was the smart one, not the pretty one.”
However, a pivotal moment in her career path came during her time at Northwestern University. According to Finding Freedom, authored by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, Meghan took the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) in 1999, a highly competitive exam that assesses candidates on their potential to join the U.S. State Department. Passing the test would have qualified her to begin a career in diplomatic service, perhaps setting the stage for a very different future than the one that led her to the British royal family.
Meghan’s early interest in diplomacy and international affairs was clear during her college years. While studying at Northwestern, she undertook an internship at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a position where her interest in foreign service could be seen firsthand. However, after taking the FSOT, Meghan was reportedly devastated when she failed the test, an outcome that impacted her confidence. Finding Freedom details how “she wasn’t used to failing” and described the experience as “a major blow to her confidence, which she had always tried to protect.”
Following the setback, Meghan returned to Northwestern to complete her studies, ultimately earning a double major in theatre and international studies. This academic path, combined with her international experiences, allowed her to carve out a unique career that eventually led her to acting before stepping into the spotlight of the British monarchy.
Although the failed exam meant she didn’t continue in diplomatic service, Meghan’s international focus and sense of social purpose continued to grow, evident in her later humanitarian work. Over the years, she has become an advocate for various social issues, from supporting mental health initiatives to speaking out on gender equality. Since stepping back from her royal duties in 2020, Meghan has focused on a range of media projects and social campaigns, further fueling speculation about her long-term interests and, potentially, her political ambitions.
The Duchess’ story illustrates how an early career disappointment didn’t deter her from staying active on a global stage. Today, Meghan’s influence extends far beyond her royal connections, with some noting that her background in international studies and early diplomatic aspirations have been reflected in her advocacy work and media endeavors. While her path diverged from public service to royal life, Meghan Markle’s journey underscores her enduring drive to make an impact and pursue a life of purpose and advocacy.
