I have been closely following Infanta Sofía’s university experience in Lisbon for weeks. Three months after graduating from UWC Atlantic College, she is already immersed in her first year of Political Science and International Relations at Forward College, a young, international, and highly experimental institution. And that’s where her most recent challenge emerged: a project on how to build a better future.
Yes, it’s that ambitious. The university itself explained it on social media with a question I loved: “How can we design better futures?”
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What is this Forward College project about?
The exercise is part of the so-called Social Impact Projects, where students work on real challenges related to the SDGs. They learn design applied to social issues and explore topics ranging from sustainable luxury to life in digital cities.
This program combines creativity, data, and direct engagement with Portuguese organizations. According to the center, this experience has sparked bold ideas, critical thinking, and many new perspectives.
On December 5th, Sofia and her classmates presented their proposals, marking the end of the first phase of the course.
What else has Sofia been doing these past few months?
Academic life isn’t just about projects. They recently celebrated Reading Week, a time to catch up, explore new spaces, and recharge. The center’s description sounded almost like an invitation to slow down: travel, be inspired, rest… and yes, study a little.
It caught my attention because this dynamic aligns with Queen Letizia’s love of reading, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Sofia enjoys a more relaxed pace.
Technology as part of their daily training
Another interesting point is the use of AI as an educational tool. In October, they announced that all students would learn to use it ethically and effectively from day one.
They describe Study Mode as a system that guides students step-by-step, and Careers Bot as a tool that suggests opportunities based on each student’s skills. Additionally, everyone participates in an induction workshop designed to foster a responsible attitude toward these tools.
Meanwhile, the countdown to Christmas has begun, and it appears Sofia will return to Spain to reunite with her parents and Princess Leonor, who remains at the General Air Force Academy.