Just a few days ago, Irene Urdangarin, daughter of the Infanta Cristina and Iñaki Urdangarin, began a new stage in her life by starting her university studies at a small and discreet university in the southeast of England.
At only 19 years old, Irene is facing an academic adventure that will define her professional future, in an environment that offers tranquility and a multicultural approach.
Before starting her university life, Irene spent a year in Madrid, living in the Zarzuela Palace with her grandmother, Queen Sofia.
During that time, she not only prepared for her studies, but also participated in volunteer work in Cambodia, studied languages and obtained her driver’s license.
Despite rumors of alleged “privileges,” her access to university was not automatic. In fact, she failed to get into the prestigious EHL Hospitality Business School in the Swiss city of Lausanne because she did not make the cut-off mark.
Irene Urdangarin in England
According to sources close to the family, on her arrival at the campus, Irene was accompanied by her mother, who wanted to be present at these first important moments.
The Infanta Cristina, committed to her daughter’s well-being, helped her settle in and prepare for Introduction Week, a week of adaptation designed for new students, who will spend the next three years here.
The career Irene has chosen is Hospitality, a program focused on event organization and marketing, whose tuition is a little over $15,000 per year, a figure significantly lower than the rumors that had circulated in the Spanish press.
Although in some media it was mentioned that she would study at the same university as Alexia from Holland, this was denied, as Irene has opted for a smaller and less elitist institution.
In fact, discretion is key here, with the university requesting that her name not be published to protect the privacy of students.
Irene’s adjustment has been positive. Within days of arriving, she participated in a meeting to organize sporting events and attended the introduction party for new students. In addition, she has the support of a more senior student, who will serve as a mentor and help her with any questions she may have in this new stage.
The young woman left her boyfriend, Juan Urquijo, with whom she has been in a relationship since last Christmas, in Spain. Now their love will have to stand the test of living thousands of miles away.