Prince William announces his plans for after university

Prince William, who graduates from the University of St Andrews today, will undertake a series of work experience placements in the UK this autumn.

William is keen to broaden his knowledge and gain experience of a number of different professions. At the same time, the Prince is also continuing to consider actively joining the Armed Forces. He recently passed preliminary examinations which would allow him to apply for Army officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, if he wishes to do so.

The work experience placements will include:

• Spending time with a financial institution in London, gaining an insight into international finance and commerce

• Learning more about land management on a country estate

• Helping with a mountain rescue team

 Prince William said today:

“I very much hope that these work placements will give me hands-on experience in three very different, but important areas.

“The work experience in the City was something I was particularly keen to do as I feel that this is an area in which I could learn a lot, and it may well help me with charitable fundraising in the future.

“The land management experience will hopefully allow me to develop skills and an understanding of how to best look after the countryside.

“Joining a mountain rescue team really appealed to me as I can learn at first hand how these amazing people help save lives on a regular basis.”

The placements were announced by Clarence House today as Prince William received his certificate for his 2:1 Masters degree in Geography from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of St Andrews, Dr Brian Lang, in front of Her Majesty The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay (as The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are known in Scotland).

 Prince William said:

“Today is a very special day for me and I am delighted that I can share it with my family, and in particular with my grandmother, who has made such an effort to come having been under the weather.”

After the graduation ceremony, Prince William, accompanied by his father and The Duchess of Rothesay, will make a private visit to the local police station.

Explaining why he was visiting the police station, Prince William said:

“I really wanted to specifically thank Fife Constabulary for the constant support which they have given me and to wish them well for the future.”

Of his four years at university, Prince William said:

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at St Andrews and I shall be very sad to leave. I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who has made my time here so enjoyable. I have been able to lead as “normal” a student life as I could have hoped for and I am very grateful to everyone, particularly the locals, who have helped to make this happen.

“I am going to miss being in Scotland – I have got used to the weather and all the golf chat!”

Looking to the future, Prince William said:

“Although I will miss being at St Andrews, I am very much looking forward to the challenges and opportunities which the future brings – and not least, hopefully, an ultimately triumphant Lions tour of New Zealand.”